Benefit‐finding process development in families raising children with chronic food hypersensitivity

In: Family relations, Band 71, Heft 2, S. 707-723

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveTo examine benefit‐finding processes in families raising children with chronic food hypersensitivity and provide practical advice for practitioners and families.BackgroundThe existing literature primarily describes benefits individuals identify from adversity. This study addresses a literature gap by examining processes facilitating benefit‐finding within families.MethodThis was a multicenter classical grounded theory study comparing benefit‐finding processes through analysis of semistructured interviews with 11 families (48 nuclear family members).ResultsThree main benefit‐finding processes were identified, forming a hierarchical benefit‐finding process model: It Could Be Worse (benefit‐finding); Silver Lining (benefit‐reminding generating positive affect); Action Advantage (benefit‐reminding generating advantageous behavior change). Enhanced family functioning and well‐being was observed with Action Advantage. Parental training facilitated Action Advantage. Parental role‐modeling and reinforcement transferred benefit‐finding processes among family members, producing a shared family process.ConclusionsTraining parents to model Action Advantage benefit‐finding and implementing Family Management Plans addressing biopsychosocial well‐being of all family members is recommended. Evidence suggests such actions may enhance family functioning, cohesive relationships, and well‐being.ImplicationsTranslatable findings advance theory and may facilitate benefit‐finding process assessment instruments, interventions, and teachable strategies for practitioners and researchers supporting families raising children with chronic food hypersensitivity.