Komunikasi Relasional Orang Tua Dan Anak Kanker Pada Fase Paliatif di Yayasan Cahaya Padang

Abstract

Interpersonal communication between parents and children with cancer changes when the child enters palliative care. In this phase, communication is no longer oriented toward conveying complete medical information, but rather toward maintaining emotional connection, sustaining hope, and improving the child's quality of life. This study aims to analyze interpersonal communication between parents and children with cancer during palliative care and to analyze the role of volunteers from the Cahaya Padang Community Foundation in facilitating that communication. The study used a qualitative method with a case study approach. There were ten informants, consisting of parents of children with cancer, volunteers of the Cahaya Padang Community Foundation, and health workers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation, then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model and interpreted through Relational Communication Theory and Social Support Theory. The results show that the communication formed is relational communication that places emotional closeness as its main orientation. Parents apply selective openness by not disclosing all information about the palliative status in order to protect the child's psychological condition and hope, and prioritize supportive communication through motivation, emotional accompaniment, touch, and presence. Volunteers not only provide emotional support but also act as facilitators and mediators of communication within the family and between the family and health workers, thereby strengthening interpersonal communication and creating a positive and supportive communication environment.