Hope genogram: assessment of resources and interaction patterns in the family of the child with cerebral palsy

Background: Hope has been defined as a dynamic life force, an important phenomenon in the promotion, maintenance and sustenance of life. At this level there are several strategies that promote hope that have been described in the literature, including the involvement of the extended family, especially in its relationship with the anguish of experiences in parents of children with special health care needs. Objective: To identify the resources and hope interactions in an inter-generational perspective on child family with cerebral palsy. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted with a sample of parents of children with cerebral palsy in the area of influence of Administração Regional de Saúde (ARS) of Lisboa and Vale do Tejo. For data collection and treatment, semi-structured interviews and content analysis were used, respectively. Results: From the parents' perspective the Hope genogram was co-constructed. They identified the family as a network of support and encouragement. Optimism, self-efficacy of mothers in caring for their children and the acceptance of their health condition were valued as positive psychological factors. From the analysis of indicators emerged personal attributes, relationships and bond established with other family members. Hope was valued in the coping process, playing a significant role in the adjustment of mothers to children's health. Conclusions: Hope genogram is an instrument that facilitates the assessment of the internal and external structure of the family of children with cerebral palsy. It allowed the identification of stories of hope as well as personal attributes and patterns of hope promoters as interactions established among members.