Anxiety, Coping, and Stress: Counseling Parents of Children With a Rare Disease

Abstract

Rare diseases affect an estimated 300 million individuals worldwide, and ∼30 million Americans. One of these diseases, FOXG1 syndrome, is a severe neurological condition that causes medical complications and developmental delays. The majority of those diagnosed with the genetic condition are children, making parenting a challenging experience. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the relationship between anxiety, coping, and stress among parents of children with FOXG1 syndrome, ( N = 84). The objective was to identify how these constructs relate and contribute to one another to best treat parents who are seeking counseling services. Results indicated significant relationships between these constructs. Study implications, limitations, and areas for future research are discussed.