Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Jeffrey Y. Harlow

Abstract

Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition in the world. Of those affected, about 30% are treatment-resistant, making it difficult for symptom relief. Children are also among those affected by epilepsy, and the unpredictable epileptic symptoms often induce stress, anxiety, confusion, depression for the parents/caretakers. Furthermore, epilepsy is a condition that can impair cognitive abilities, social interaction, and physical ailments. Antiepileptic drugs are the common medical treatment for epileptic symptoms. However, parents have often reported minimal positive change, ineffectiveness, and negative side effects that included nausea, fatigue, rash, insomnia, change in personality, cognitive impairment, and diarrhea. A review of the literature showed a gap in research regarding feelings of hope and cannabidiol treatment. The purpose of this study was to explore a sense of hopefulness as it is described by parents who are using cannabidiol to treat epileptic symptoms. Social constructivism was the conceptual framework and hope theory was applied for the theoretical framework. This study aimed to answer whether a sense of hopefulness influenced by cannabidiol treatment affected quality of life. Using a descriptive qualitative design, 11 parents were interviewed and responded to journal prompts. Data analysis resulted in six themes: frequency of seizures, experiences with antiepileptic drugs, genuine personality, independence, advocacy, and hopeful future. Results can help medical and mental health professional provide resources, support, and promote a sense of community and a better quality of life for epileptic children and their families.

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