Parents' experiences of caring for a young person with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1): a qualitative study

Abstract

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a variable and unpredictable genetic condition that can lead to changes to an individual's appearance. Research has started to explore children's and young people's experiences of living with the condition; however, there is a lack of research with parents. This exploratory qualitative study set out to examine parents' experiences of caring for a young person with NF1. Seven parents took part in semi structured interviews which were subjected to a thematic analysis. Three key themes were identified which related to managing the uncertainty of the condition, the impact of an altered appearance, and others' awareness and understanding of NF1. Parents felt that understanding NF1 themselves in order to support their child was beneficial whilst a perceived lack of understanding by others was cited as a significant challenge. Parents require trustworthy information and also more widely call for greater understanding and awareness of the condition.

Keywords: Body image; Neurofibromatosis type 1; Parents; Qualitative.