What Illness Means to Children

Abstract

All children have dreams and hopes. In the safety of a family home, on the streets or in the battle fields of war, children have expectations of a future in which they will grow older, extend their relationships and experiences, and assume new roles. For some, this includes a concrete wish to become like an adult in their world, a doctor, teacher, mother or father. Others fear becoming like adults they know, and are determined to make very different choices in their own lives. Even the most confident children have some concerns about their ability to cope, about relationships with parents, siblings or peers.