Smoking Habits of In-family Caregivers of Children with Special Healthcare Needs: A Case Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the smoking habits of caregivers of children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN) in an inner-city, low-income population. CSHCN have a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition, which require more health and social services than children generally (McPherson et al., 1998). Over 11 million children in the United States have a special healthcare need (DRC, 2009/2010). Caregivers who smoke are at risk of developing serious adverse health outcomes. Yet, there is little known about the smoking habits of caregivers of CSHCN. A qualitative descriptive design was used to elicit smoking history, frequency and triggers among caregivers of CSHCN who smoke. Data were collected using a semi-structured, one-on-one interview guide and a demographic survey. The interview was audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using content analysis. This case study uncovered feelings of guilt associated with smoking and caring for a CSHCN, smoking urges being predominately mental not physical, smoking as an escape, smoking as a social behavior and smoking as a stress reliever. This information contributes to understanding smoking practices of caregivers and emphasizes the need for continued research to further understand cravings and their relationship to caring for a CSHCN.