A Computer-Based Approach to Improving Problem Solving Skills for Parents of Children with Chronic Illness

Parents often need assistance in coping with specific problems encountered with their chronically ill child. A computer-based education program to improve coping and problem solving for parents of children with cystic fibrosis (CF) has been developed. Lessons are presented by microcomputer to parents who accompany their child to a Regional CF Center for routine health follow-up. Lesson design was based on the hypothesis that overall competence in adjusting to chronic illness increases when a parent learns general methods of coping with specific problem situations arising in their daily living with their chronically ill child. The effectiveness of these lessons is being evaluated, as well as the effect of child/parent attributes on the success of this type of health education.