Effect of storytelling on anxiety and fear in children during hospitalization: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

Hospitalization often induces anxiety and fear in children, which may lead to maladaptive behaviours. Prior research has found that storytelling can help improve children's communication and reduce their stress. Not only does it enhance children's ability to express their emotions more effectively and comfortably, it also assists them in releasing negative emotions like anxiousness and fear.

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of storytelling in reducing children's anxiety and/or fear during hospitalization.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. The search spanned across eight online databases from their inception dates to January 2024. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was utilized to perform quality appraisals. Effects model was utilized to conduct the meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses were conducted for age of participants, geographical location and measurement used.

Findings

A total of eight studies were included in this review. Compared to standard care, storytelling was found to be effective in reducing anxiety and/or fear in children during hospitalization. Anxiety scores were not affected by the participants' age, but the geographical location and type of measurement scales used showed significant subgroup differences.

Conclusion

Storytelling interventions help to reduce anxiety and fear levels in hospitalized children. It was suggested that hospitals could provide the necessary training to healthcare workers to perform storytelling more effectively. Additionally, involvement of parents in storytelling could be encouraged, ensuring continuity even after discharge. Further research can be conducted in more diverse geographical regions and explore how storytelling content can vary across different ages.