Children's Views on Their Own Hospitalization at a Child Psychiatric Ward

Services tailored to the wishes and needs of children have seldom been studied. Consumers should all be included in the development of health care services. The purpose of this study is to describe childrens views on their own hospitalization at a child psychiatric ward. The research data were collected from 29 children, who were interviewed using a structured questionnaire, including open-ended questions. The childrens views on hospitalization revealed that they felt guilt, experienced difficulties at home and at school, and recognized their own behaviour as a reason for hospitalization. After spending at least one month at the ward the children said they could handle better with homework, school, other children and in everyday life situations. The children felt unconfident about their relationships with other children, and they wished being helped more in the social relationships with others. The children need time and a sensitive collaborative approach, which can address the child's individuality and family situation. Hearing the voice of children can reveal new knowledge on hospitalization. Research on children could use flexible research methods, and pay special attention to the child's developmental stage when planning the research methods.