ABSTRACT
This chapter provides useful information for parents on issues that might arise for children or teens when there is a serious illness in the family, such as cancer. Therapists need to be aware of the serious impact an illness or disability can have on children and family members, and should always assess for the presence of an illness when a child or family begins therapy. Rolland discusses the tasks of families during different stages of an illness. A relapse or recurrence of a serious illness such as cancer or multiple sclerosis can often be much more devastating than an original diagnosis. Studies indicate that children's or adolescent's behavior, self-esteem, and peer experiences may be negatively affected when a parent has cancer. A reoccurrence of the illness may be an opportune time to reintroduce these guidelines or to reinforce and extend previous therapeutic work.
