Good days and bad days: the experiences of children of a parent with a psychiatric disability

Psychiatr Rehabil J. 2004 Summer;28(1):25-31. doi: 10.2975/28.2004.25.31.

Abstract

Twenty-two children, ages 5 to 17, described their experiences living within a family that included a parent with a psychiatric disability who was involved in community mental health agency services. The children's descriptions of parents' "good days" and "bad days" were captured in a secondary data analysis of a study that included face-to-face children's interviews. Children also discussed their perceptions of psychiatric disabilities and rehabilitation. Children reported more attention from parents on "good days." They expressed concerns about multiple family stressors and bias associated with psychiatric disability. They had little information about psychiatric disabilities and/or rehabilitation. Children recommended "Get help earlier."

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude to Health
  • Child
  • Child of Impaired Parents / psychology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Disabled Persons*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / psychology*
  • Parent-Child Relations
  • Parents / psychology*
  • Social Perception