Anger might be next as the parents become aware of a feeling of helplessness and loss of control over their own child's life. A life which may be taken over by painful or intrusive investigations, strangers asking questions, and, if hospitalized, unfamiliar policies, routines and loss of privacy. Anger can be a positive force because it motivates people to action. Parents begin to assume control again by learning all they can about the illness, by advocating for their child's needs, by teaching their child about the illness and by beginning to learn aspects of the child's care. The parents are reluctant to discipline or have expectations for the child.
Rejection is a relatively uncommon reaction of parents.
In this situation, the parents deny the severity of the illness, may withdraw emotionally from the child or neglect necessary treatment. Acceptance is the ultimate goal of most parents. They are able to gain satisfaction from the child's accomplishments, taking their limitations into account but not dwelling on them. It is important to point out that most families have similar needs and concerns and confront common demands and problems throughout the child's life. It is important to remember that these are normal effects of chronic illness on family life.