A new study, 'The experiences of youth serving as caregivers for mentally ill parents: a background review of the literature,' is now available. According to recent research from Wilmington, United States, 'Young caregivers of mentally ill parents are a vulnerable population. These vulnerabilities include risks for developmental issues, poor socialization, and poor school performance.'
'The purpose of this background review of the literature is to explore the experiences of young caregivers of mentally ill parents and detect the gaps in the literature. The guiding research questions were: What is the experience of young caregivers of mentally ill parents? and What is the experience for those who witness or must assist their parent during a crisis? The majority of research has been conducted outside the United States, primarily in the United Kingdom, and studies have focused mostly on young caregivers of parents with physical rather than mental illness. No studies focused on young caregivers who witnessed or assisted their mentally ill parent in crisis,' wrote B.M Mechling and colleagues, School of Nursing (see also Mental Health).
The researchers concluded: 'Information gained through this review will add to the body of knowledge for child mental health and build a case for additional research.'
Mechling and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing & Mental Health Services (The experiences of youth serving as caregivers for mentally ill parents: a background review of the literature. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing & Mental Health Services, 2011;49(3):28-33).
For additional information, contact B.M. Mechling, The University of North Carolina at Wilmington, School of Nursing, 601 South College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States..
Keywords: City:Wilmington, State:North Carolina, Country:United States, Mental Health, Psychosocial.
This article was prepared by Mental Health Weekly Digest editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2011, Mental Health Weekly Digest via NewsRx.com.
