The 33rd Annual Conference of the Japanese Association for Research in Family Nursing (JARFN) was held August 29-30, 2026, at Kochi City Culture Plaza CUL-PORT in Kochi, Japan. Under the theme, “Walking Alongside Families to Create Harmony from Conflict,” the conference welcomed 713 participants. In addition, more than 90 individuals registered for on-demand streaming of the main program.
The conference featured a Special Lecture by Rei Shibamoto (Carers Japan), “Living with the Disharmony That ‘Invisible Disabilities’ Bring to Families.” Two Educational Lectures were presented: “Conflict and Growth in Families as Systems” by Masamichi Nakagaki (Children’s Rainbow Center) and “Focusing on Boundaries and Family Mediation to Create Harmony” by Hiroko Watanabe (Japan Family and Human Relations Support Association).
In addition, two symposia, “Understanding Conflict: Perspectives from Clinical Philosophy, Law, and Management” and “Advanced Practice Skills of Certified Nurse Specialists in Family Health Nursing for Creating Harmony in Families Experiencing Conflict,” were held. A public lecture, titled “Decisions That Shape the Future of Children Receiving Medical Care and Their Families,” was also offered.
Through these programs, participants examined conflicts arising within families and in their relationships with others, exploring ways to foster harmony through family nursing practice, research, lived experiences, and interdisciplinary perspectives. Discussions highlighted that conflict is not an exceptional event but a natural aspect of family life. Participants explored how dialogue can help uncover the differing perceptions, values, and experiences that underlie conflict, and emphasized the importance of walking alongside families to better understand these dynamics and explore pathways toward harmony. These discussions provided valuable implications for advancing family nursing practice and research.
The conference also included four committee-organized sessions, 22 special interest sessions, and 113 general presentations (41 oral and 72 poster presentations). Lively discussions took place across all venues.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all participants, everyone involved in planning and operating the conference, and the JARFN board members and councilors for their invaluable support.
The 34th Annual Conference will be held August 28-29, 2027, and will be hosted by Professor Mari Ikeda of the University of Tokyo.
Hiroko Uryu, PhD, RN
Conference President, 33rd Annual JARFN Conference
Professor, Faculty of Nursing, University of Kochi