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150518 Outcomes for children who care for a parent Edit.pdf (304.12 kB)

Outcomes for children who care for a parent with a severe illness or substance abuse

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posted on 2023-06-09, 15:29 authored by Ellen Katrine Kallander, Bente Weimand, Torleif Ruud, Saul Becker, Betty Van Van Roy, Ketil Hanssen-Bauer
Quantitative studies of children’s caring activities during parental illness have increased in the past 10 years. However, the various outcomes for these children have been investigated less frequently. In the present study, we investigate whether the children have different outcomes when the parent has a severe physical illness, mental illness, or substance abuse and whether any factors are associated with the positive and negative outcomes of the children’s caregiving. This was a cross-sectional, multicenter study. We recruited parents who were out- or inpatients in five public hospitals in Norway as well as their children. The sample included 246 children ages 8–18 and 238 of their parents with a severe physical illness, mental illness, or substance abuse. Ten percent reported negative outcomes at a clinical level of concern, and nearly half of the children reported stress. However, the outcomes were not significantly different across parental illness groups. Positive and negative outcomes were associated with the nature of caring activities (e.g., personal care, financial and practical management, household management), social skills, and perceived external locus of control. Health professionals must provide a more comprehensive and overall assessment of both the parents’ and the children’s needs. To recognize the role taken by the child, an assessment of children’s caring activities and their need for adequate information should be performed. In particular, should the children’s need for follow-up regarding caring activities, respite, and emotional support be assessed to secure their necessary skills and feeling of mastery.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Accepted version

Journal

Child and Youth Services

ISSN

0145-935X

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Issue

4

Volume

39

Page range

228-249

Department affiliated with

  • Social Work and Social Care Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2018-10-15

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2019-10-05

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2018-11-13

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