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Abstract This article describes the development and tests the reliability and validity of a new survey instrument, the Child-to-Mother Violence Scale (CMVS). This instrument was devised specifically to measure data [...]

o'baugh j., wilkes l.m., luke s. & george a. (2003) Journal of Advanced Nursing 44(3), 262–270 ‘Being positive’: perceptions of patients with cancer and their nurses A review of popular literature reveals a constant message about the healing power of ‘being positive’. While there are studies that have examined the link between psychosocial factors such as attitude and cancer survival, very little has been reported about the perceptions of patients and nurses on the meaning of ‘being positive’. To explore the meaning of ‘being positive’ for patients undergoing cancer treatment and for nurses who care for them. A qualitative, descriptive approach within the paradigm of constructivist inquiry was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a self-selected convenience sample of 11 patients and eight nurses. The interviews addressed the following key concepts: definitions of ‘being positive’ and being negative; how these attributes are manifest in cancer patients; and factors influencing patient attitudes. Patients defined ‘being positive’ as maintaining some sort of normality without letting cancer have a detrimental effect on daily living. Nurses identified hope, acceptance, fighting spirit and looking on the bright side as definitions of ‘being positive’. Nurses and patients identified environment and support of family, friends and health professionals as factors that influence patient attitudes. Patients also identified other peoples’ attitudes as important. ‘Being positive’ must be acknowledged as central to being able to cope with cancer and its treatment. The ability of nurses to care for patients with cancer and help them to remain positive will be improved if they develop a better understanding of the meaning of ‘being positive’ for patients, and how other peoples’ attitudes affect their state of mind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the high prevalence rate and significant mortality and morbidity from coronary heart disease in Asian Indians (irrespective of their religious background), very few studies have reported on family members' experiences of caring for a person with coronary heart disease. This paper reports on family members' experiences of coronary heart disease in Asian Indians residing in Australia, and is part of a larger study that explored the experiences and/or understanding of coronary heart disease in Asian Indians from the perspective of patients, family members and 'healthy' participants. Using a constructivist approach semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with five family members. Findings are represented under the following main categories: 1. A period of complexity for family members; 2. Indian Culture: Its influence on health/health behaviour & illness experience; 3. Impact of migration and societal discrimination; 4. Disappointment with health care services and the health system; and 5. Strategies to prevent cardiac illness and attain optimal health. Cultural factors had both positive and negative influences not only on the illness experience but also on health behaviour and attitude. The impact of Indian culture in relation to coronary heart disease needs to be understood not only at the cultural level by providing culturally sensitive health care, but also by educating Asian Indians to change their health attitude and behaviour and improve their lifestyle. Asian Indians need education and advice to become more resilient and adaptable to a Western society and also to become aware of the acculturative effects of a Western lifestyle.