Summary

Abstract

This brief chapter summarizes information from theory and research guiding the development of this book. The notion of a systems-based approach, that considers the child and his or her family members “in context” or as influenced by factors in their life settings underlies a family-centered and patient-centered approach to care, because it may allow mental health providers and members of the medical team to meet the child, parent, and other family members “where they are” in terms of coping with the child’s illness and adjusting their lives to have new meanings and roles that incorporate the child’s coping and resilience. The evidence or research base for provision of care that supports child functioning and positive development is growing and mental health professionals can receive excellent guidance from this literature. Utilizing information from the literature, networking with the medical team, school, and family can be key tools for the mental health provider to support the child.

Keywords: Child coping, context, family-centered care, networking, patientcentered care, resilience.

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