Living with a mentally ill parent: exploring adolescents' experiences and perspectives

Qual Health Res. 2012 Feb;22(2):174-88. doi: 10.1177/1049732311420736. Epub 2011 Aug 25.

Abstract

Although a considerable body of research has described the implications of parental mental illness, the perspectives of children and adolescents have rarely been addressed. In this article, I explore adolescents' experiences in everyday life, based on an action-oriented study of a Norwegian online self-help group for adolescents (aged 15 to 18) with mentally ill parents. The analysis was conducted through participant observation of the group for 2 years. The adolescents experienced a variety of difficult challenges related to their parent's mental illness: lack of information and openness; unpredictability and instability; fear; loneliness; and loss and sorrow. However, they also discussed strategies for active management of the challenges arising from the family situation. I argue that these adolescents can be understood as vulnerable as well as active participants in managing their everyday lives. I emphasize the importance of including perspectives of children and adolescents in further research so as to improve health care for families with parental mental illness.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Child of Impaired Parents / psychology*
  • Fear
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Loneliness
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / psychology*
  • Norway
  • Parents*
  • Self-Help Groups