Introduction
In the realm of speech-language pathology, the ability to facilitate effective communication is paramount. For children with chronic illnesses, self-disclosure—the act of sharing personal information about one's condition—can be a crucial aspect of their social and emotional well-being. A recent narrative review titled Illness conversations: Self-disclosure among children and youth with chronic illnesses provides valuable insights into the complexities of self-disclosure in peer-based relationships. This blog aims to explore the key findings of the review and offer practical recommendations for practitioners to enhance their skills in supporting children through the self-disclosure process.
Understanding the Complexity of Self-Disclosure
The narrative review highlights the multifaceted nature of self-disclosure among children and youth with chronic illnesses. It reveals that most children engage in non-disclosure or concealment due to fears of discrimination and social exclusion. However, some children choose unplanned, passive, partial, or open disclosure based on their comfort level and trust in their peers. The decision to disclose is influenced by factors such as anticipated reactions, previous experiences, and the strength of friendships.
Key Findings from the Review
- Types of Disclosure: The review identifies various types of disclosure, including concealment, unplanned revelation, passive disclosure, selective/partial disclosure, preventive/protective disclosure, and open disclosure.
- Audience Considerations: Children tend to disclose their illness to peers who are perceived as trustworthy, empathetic, and likely to provide support.
- Methods of Disclosure: Disclosure can occur verbally, behaviorally, or in written form, with children often preparing scripts to guide their conversations.
- Outcomes of Disclosure: Positive outcomes include increased confidence, self-advocacy, and strengthened relationships, while negative outcomes may involve distress and stigmatization.
Practical Recommendations for Practitioners
Practitioners can play a pivotal role in supporting children with chronic illnesses in their self-disclosure journey. Here are some evidence-based strategies to consider:
- Create Safe Spaces: Foster an environment where children feel safe and supported to share their experiences without fear of judgment or discrimination.
- Empower Through Education: Equip children with knowledge about their condition and the disclosure process, helping them make informed decisions about when and how to disclose.
- Encourage Role-Playing: Use role-playing exercises to help children practice disclosure scenarios, building their confidence and communication skills.
- Facilitate Peer Support: Encourage peer support groups where children can share experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges.
- Collaborate with Families: Work closely with families to ensure that disclosure decisions align with the child's comfort level and family values.
Encouraging Further Research
While the narrative review provides valuable insights, there is a need for further research to explore the nuances of self-disclosure among different age groups and cultural contexts. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of knowledge by conducting studies and sharing their findings with the broader community.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Illness conversations: Self-disclosure among children and youth with chronic illnesses.
