"I am not a good enough parent": The experience of self-stigma in parents of children with mental illness in China

Abstract

Problem: Self-stigma in parents of children with mental illness is an area easily overlooked by mental health providers. Many studies have shown that self-stigma in parents may result in social interaction avoidance, lower self-esteem, increased psychological pressure, and so on. However, a comprehensive picture of how parents of children with mental illness in China experience self-stigma is lacking.

Methods: Individual semistructured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 20 parents from China during their child's psychiatric hospitalization. We followed the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist.

Findings: Four main themes were identified that captured the experience of self-stigma in parents of children with mental illness: (1) losing face and fear, (2) internalizing affiliate stigma, (3) feeling of self-blame and self-doubt, and (4) keeping oneself away from society.

Conclusions: These findings explain how Chinese parents of children with mental illness experience self-stigma. To better effect the treatment and rehabilitation of children with mental illness, it is necessary to recognize this self-stigma in parents and take action to improve their mental health.

Keywords: Chinese; culture; mental illness; parents; qualitative study; self‐stigma.