Web-based counseling for families with parental cancer: Baseline findings and lessons learned

Purpose:; This is the first study in Switzerland to report on psychological adjustment in children of a parent with cancer using a web-based intervention during cancer therapy.; Design/Sample:; Twenty-two families participated in this randomized controlled web-based intervention program.; Methods:; Quality of life and emotional-behavioral well-being of children were examined using child self-reports, and parent proxy-reports. Furthermore, family communication and satisfaction and feedback on the web-based program were assessed.; Findings:; Children's first stage adjustment to parental cancer did not show detrimental patterns. The "lesson learned" in this setting emphasizes the challenge to reach families in need. The web-based program was appreciated as an additional source of information and support in this mostly highly functioning population.; Conclusion:; While feasibility was shown, it remains unclear how to contact families with lower psychosocial functioning.