The psychosocial approach to the medical management of patients with cystic fibrosis.

It is most important to deal with the feelings of the child 
and his family in regard to cystic fibrosis. Genuine recognition of 
feelings by the pediatric staff can go a long way toward 
reassuring family members that their long-standing burden and suffering are being 
validated and understood. When a family manifests early signs of difficulty 
in coping with the emotional and physical stress imposed by cystic 
fibrosis, it is helpful to refer them to a child psychiatrist 
for consultation. It is primarily the families at high risk for 
breakdown which most require early prevention and intervention. The role of 
the pediatrician as the primary clinician is crucial. It is he 
who must provide the support and understanding that are integral parts 
of the primary prevention of emotional decompensation in this disorder. 