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Justin P, Dorard G, Leu A, Untas A. Young carers supporting a relative with cancer: What is the healthcare professionals' knowledge in France? An exploratory study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 70:102567. [PMID: 38531294 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Many children and adolescents support relatives with cancer. However, literature about young carers (YCs) shows a lack of awareness among professionals, especially in oncology. This quantitative study aims to explore the level of knowledge and perceptions of healthcare professionals working with cancer patients about the situations and characteristics of YCs. METHODS 395 professionals participated in an online survey. Professionals reported sociodemographic and professional information and answered several questions evaluating their perceptions about YCs, such as the types of support provided and the consequences of being a YC. Descriptive analysis and group comparisons (Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis tests) by sex, occupation, and patients treated (adult and/or pediatric) are performed on the data collected. RESULTS Overall, per the literature on YCs, professionals provide an adequate description of what a YC can be, even though one in two professionals have never heard the term. Several differences are observed: Men mention fewer types of support that YCs can provide, while women report more negative consequences of being a YC; psychologists and social workers report fewer positive impacts for these young people than the other professionals; professionals who work with pediatric patients mention fewer negative consequences than those who work with adults. CONCLUSION Oncology healthcare professionals have sufficient awareness of YCs; however, several professionals struggle to fully understand the situation of YCs. These findings underline the need for awareness programs in oncology to improve health professionals' understanding of YCs and enhance their identification and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Justin
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, F-92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, F-59000 Lille, France.
| | - Géraldine Dorard
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, F-92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Agnes Leu
- University of Basel, Medical Faculty, Institute for Biomedical Ethics, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Aurélie Untas
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, F-92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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Hendricks BA, Kupzyk K, Poppert Cordts KM, Lally RM. Oncology's Silent Caregivers: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of the Experiences, Outcomes, and Unmet Needs of Caregiving Youth of a Parent With Cancer. Cancer Nurs 2024:00002820-990000000-00238. [PMID: 38598768 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer affects the whole family system causing reorganization of functioning and responsibilities where children may take on a caregiving role. In the United States, an estimated 204 000 to 475 000 caregiving youth provide multifaceted, extended care in oncology. This results in both positive and negative outcomes for youth-spanning multiple domains of health. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore the caregiving experiences, outcomes, and unmet needs of caregiving youth (aged 12-24 years) in oncology. METHODS An explanatory sequential mixed-methods study design was used. Fifty-two adults who lived with a parent with cancer as a child were recruited via social media and asked to complete an online survey. A subsample of 18 individuals reporting high to very high amounts of caregiving were subsequently interviewed. RESULTS The mean reported caregiving youth age was 16.13 (±4.86) years. They provided care approximately 22.43 h/wk for approximately 3.04 years. Most (71.2%) reported high to very high amounts of caregiving activity. The highest reported categories of unmet needs were information, family, feelings, friends, and time out/recreation. Qualitative findings included 4 themes: stepping into the role, family communication, dealing with feelings, and a new separateness. CONCLUSIONS Identified needs included a desire for more information to aid in uncertainty, better communication within the family, needing someone to help them process their feelings, and peer-to-peer support. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE It is important for nurses and researchers to be aware of and acknowledge the needs of families dealing with cancer and aid in the development and implementation of tailored interventions to support caregiving youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey A Hendricks
- Author Affiliation: College of Nursing (Drs Hendricks, Kupzyk, and Lally) and College of Medicine (Dr Poppert Cordts), University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha
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Vreeker A, Horsfall M, Eikelenboom M, Beerthuizen A, Bergink V, Boks MPM, Hartman CA, de Koning R, de Leeuw M, Maciejewski DF, Penninx BWJH, Hillegers MHJ. The Mood and Resilience in Offspring (MARIO) project: a longitudinal cohort study among offspring of parents with and without a mood disorder. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:227. [PMID: 38532386 PMCID: PMC10967130 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05555-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most robust risk factors for developing a mood disorder is having a parent with a mood disorder. Unfortunately, mechanisms explaining the transmission of mood disorders from one generation to the next remain largely elusive. Since timely intervention is associated with a better outcome and prognosis, early detection of intergenerational transmission of mood disorders is of paramount importance. Here, we describe the design of the Mood and Resilience in Offspring (MARIO) cohort study in which we investigate: 1. differences in clinical, biological and environmental (e.g., psychosocial factors, substance use or stressful life events) risk and resilience factors in children of parents with and without mood disorders, and 2. mechanisms of intergenerational transmission of mood disorders via clinical, biological and environmental risk and resilience factors. METHODS MARIO is an observational, longitudinal cohort study that aims to include 450 offspring of parents with a mood disorder (uni- or bipolar mood disorders) and 100-150 offspring of parents without a mood disorder aged 10-25 years. Power analyses indicate that this sample size is sufficient to detect small to medium sized effects. Offspring are recruited via existing Dutch studies involving patients with a mood disorder and healthy controls, for which detailed clinical, environmental and biological data of the index-parent (i.e., the initially identified parent with or without a mood disorder) is available. Over a period of three years, four assessments will take place, in which extensive clinical, biological and environmental data and data on risk and resilience are collected through e.g., blood sampling, face-to-face interviews, online questionnaires, actigraphy and Experience Sampling Method assessment. For co-parents, information on demographics, mental disorder status and a DNA-sample are collected. DISCUSSION The MARIO cohort study is a large longitudinal cohort study among offspring of parents with and without mood disorders. A unique aspect is the collection of granular data on clinical, biological and environmental risk and resilience factors in offspring, in addition to available parental data on many similar factors. We aim to investigate the mechanisms underlying intergenerational transmission of mood disorders, which will ultimately lead to better outcomes for offspring at high familial risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabel Vreeker
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Melany Horsfall
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Merijn Eikelenboom
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemerle Beerthuizen
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Veerle Bergink
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marco P M Boks
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina A Hartman
- Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion Regulation (ICPE), Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ricki de Koning
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health and Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Max de Leeuw
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Mental Health Care Rivierduinen, Bipolar Disorder Outpatient Clinic, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Brenda W J H Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health and Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Manon H J Hillegers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Pilato J, Lamore K, Vioulac C, Jarrige E, Dorard G, Untas A. What characterizes adolescent young carers? A multigroup comparative study. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13244. [PMID: 38465798 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT To identify the characteristics of adolescent young carers (AYCs), studies in the literature have compared them with non-AYCs, but without considering that in the latter group, some face the illness of a relative whereas others do not. OBJECTIVES The aims of the study were (1) to identify the characteristics of AYCs as compared with adolescents who are not young carers but are facing the illness/disability of a relative, or adolescents not facing the illness/disability of a relative, and (2) to identify factors associated with being a carer within adolescents facing a relative illness. METHODS A total of 4000 high school students (grades 10-12, mainly aged 15-17 years, 568 identified as AYCs, 1200 as adolescents facing the illness/disability of a relative without being a carer and 2232 as adolescents not facing the illness/disability of a relative) completed a self-reported questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, illness/disability in the family, caregiving activities (MACA-YC18 and specific emotional support scale), quality of life (KIDSCREEN-10) and mental health (GHQ-12). Chi-square tests, ANOVAs and logistic regressions were performed. RESULTS AYCs scored lower on the quality-of-life measure compared with adolescents not facing the illness/disability of a relative (p < .001) and had poorer mental health compared with adolescents facing the illness/disability of a relative without being a carer and adolescents not facing the illness/disability of a relative (p < .001). Logistic regressions showed that youth were more at risk to be an AYC when they were females (p < .001), when they had an extracurricular job (p < .001), spoke another language at home (p < .01), had siblings and were one of the oldest siblings (p < .001), and when the relative had a serious or chronic physical illness (p < .001) and lived with the youth (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS These results highlight the importance of distinguishing AYCs, adolescents facing the illness/disability of a relative without being a carer and adolescents not facing the illness/disability of a relative to better describe AYCs, recognizing that as the level of care provided might change over time, adolescents facing the illness/disability of a relative without being a carer could become AYCs or inversely. The factors that emerged could be used by professionals to better identify AYCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Pilato
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Kristopher Lamore
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 9193-SCALab-Sciences Cognitives et Affectives, Lille, France
| | - Christel Vioulac
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Eléonore Jarrige
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Nightline France, Paris, France
| | - Géraldine Dorard
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Aurélie Untas
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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Subramaniam A, Mehta KK. Exploring the Lived Experiences of Caregiving for Older Family Members by Young Caregivers in Singapore: Transition, Trials, and Tribulations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:182. [PMID: 38397673 PMCID: PMC10888348 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21020182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Amidst population ageing trends and epidemiological transitions, there has been a growing emergence of young family caregivers, about whom most studies have been conducted in Western countries. Their subjective experiences and perceptions toward caregiving remain underexplored in Asia. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of caregiving for older family members by young caregivers in Singapore. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed to collect and analyse data from semi-structured, in-depth interviews with six young adult caregivers aged between 23 and 29. Interviews were supplemented with photo-elicitation techniques to deepen interview discussions and uncover experiential significance. Findings illustrated transitions into caregiving, challenges across role conflicts and expectations amidst developmental tasks and transitions, and navigation of intergenerational conflicts and ambivalence. Although no definitive conclusions can be reached from this small-scale study, the findings offer important insights into the convergence and intensity of young caregivers' experiences. Given that caregiving challenges are likely to continue amidst Singapore's rapidly ageing population, these necessitate further in-depth research efforts. Implications for policy and practice across multiple stakeholders interfacing with youth and older adults are presented. A whole-of-society approach is called for to enable young caregivers to realise their full potential while contributing to their ageing families and nation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araviinthansai Subramaniam
- S R Nathan School of Human Development, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore 599494, Singapore;
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Mroz EL, Kastrinos A, Bacharz K, Fisher CL, Applebaum AJ. "A little bit different now": Impacts of caregiving for parent with cancer on psychosocial development in emerging and young adulthood. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38293809 PMCID: PMC11289163 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2309488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Serving as a family caregiver for, and ultimately losing, a parent with advanced cancer in emerging and young adulthood has substantial, life phase-specific implications for psychosocial development. This qualitative study characterizes domains of psychosocial development impacted by cancer caregiving and parental death in this life phase. As part of a larger study, 33 bereaved emerging/young adult caregivers of parents who died following advanced cancer completed semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis leveraging the constant comparative method was conducted by two coders and generated three themes, which described impacts of caregiving on: identity, life path, and relational intimacy and roles. Analyses also defined specific outcomes within these domains. Findings suggest that cancer caregiving-loss experiences can greatly influence developmental pursuits in this life phase. Findings validate a range of possible psychosocial impacts these caregivers may experience and can guide development of supportive resources for this growing subgroup of bereaved family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Mroz
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Amanda Kastrinos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kelsey Bacharz
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Carla L Fisher
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Allison J Applebaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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Saragosa M, Hahn-Goldberg S, Lunsky Y, Cameron JI, Caven I, Bookey-Bassett S, Newman K, Okrainec K. Young carers' perspectives on navigating the healthcare system and co-designing support for their caring roles: a mixed-methods qualitative study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075804. [PMID: 38072468 PMCID: PMC10729167 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite young carers (YCs) providing regular and significant care that exceeds what would normally be associated with an adult caregiver, we need to learn more about their experience interacting with the healthcare system. The primary study aims were to (1) describe YC experiences in interacting with the healthcare system and (2) identify types of support YC recognise as potentially helpful to their caring role. DESIGN AND SETTING A mixed-methods qualitative study was conducted between March 2022 and August 2022, comprising two phases of (1) semi-structured interviews and focus groups with YCs living in the community to confirm and expand earlier research findings, and (2) a co-design workshop informed by a generative research approach. We used findings from the interviews and focus groups to inform the brainstorming process for identifying potential solutions. RESULTS Eight YCs completed either a focus group or an interview, and four continued the study and participated in the co-design activity with 12 participants. Phase 1 resulted in three overarching themes: (1) navigating the YC role within the healthcare system; (2) being kept out of the loop; and (3) normalising the transition into caregiving. Phase 2 identified two categories: (1) YC-focused supports and (2) raising awareness and building capacity in the healthcare system. CONCLUSION Study findings revealed the critical role that YCs play when supporting their families during pivotal interactions in the healthcare system. Like their older caregiver counterparts, YCs struggle to navigate, coordinate and advocate for their family members while juggling their needs as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. This study provides important preliminary insights into YCs encountering professionals, which can be used to design and implement national support structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Saragosa
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Science of Care Institute, Sinai Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shoshana Hahn-Goldberg
- OpenLab, University Hospital Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yona Lunsky
- Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Deptartment of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jill I Cameron
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- KITE-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabelle Caven
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan Bookey-Bassett
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristine Newman
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen Okrainec
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- OpenLab, University Hospital Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Kastrinos A, Bylund C, Bacharz K, Applebaum A, Fisher CL. Understanding the role of parents' information sharing and withholding on emerging and young adults' caregiving and coping during their parents' advanced cancer. J Psychosoc Oncol 2023; 42:412-426. [PMID: 37929571 PMCID: PMC11070447 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2023.2276940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Emerging and young adult caregivers (EYACs) who provide care to their parents are a hidden, unsupported population of caregivers. Research identifies information sharing or withholding as a key aspect of caregivers' ability to cope and adjust, which may be especially critical when a parent is diagnosed with advanced cancer. The goal of this study was to examine the impact of parent information sharing/withholding on EYACs' caregiving and coping experiences. We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 33 EYACs between the ages of 18-35 who cared for a parent that died of advanced cancer. Interview transcripts were thematically analyzed. Three factors played a role in how parents' information sharing/withholding affected EYACs' caregiving/coping: 1) topic, 2) timing, and 3) who is included. Findings highlight the adaptive functioning of parents' information sharing and negative outcomes associated with information withholding, illustrating how parents' disclosure decisions function to promote or inhibit EYACs' care involvement and coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Kastrinos
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, New York, NY
| | - Carma Bylund
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL
| | - Kelsey Bacharz
- Department of Clinical & Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Allison Applebaum
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, New York, NY
| | - Carla L. Fisher
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL
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Puchol-Martínez I, Vallina Férnandez Ó, Santed-Germán MA. Preventive interventions for children and adolescents of parents with mental illness: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023; 30:979-997. [PMID: 36997159 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children of parents with mental disorders have a relatively high risk of developing a mental illness or behavioural disorder. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of preventive psychotherapeutic interventions in children of parents with mental illness. In particular, the development of mental illness and/or psychological symptomatology in this population was assessed. METHOD This qualitative systematic review looked at interventions targeting children aged 4-18 years without a diagnosed mental disorder, alone or with their families, with a parent with a diagnosed mental disorder. The protocol was pre-registered in Open Science Framework. A total of 1255 references were retrieved from MEDLINE, PsychArticles, PsycINFO, Springer Link, Science Direct, Scopus and WOS databases, and 12 references from grey literature. This search was replicated by an external reviewer. RESULTS Fifteen studies involving 1941 children and 1328 parents were included. Interventions were based on cognitive-behavioural and/or psychoeducational components, including six randomized controlled trials. Internalizing symptomatology was assessed in 80% of the studies, externalizing and prosocial behaviour in 47%, and coping style in 33%. Only two studies measured the future risk of developing a mental disorder (ORs of 2.37 and 6.6). There was variability in the format of the intervention (group; family) as well as in the type of intervention and its duration (from one session to 12 sessions). CONCLUSIONS Interventions for children of parents with mental disorder were clinically and statistically significant, especially in preventing internalizing symptomatology at one-year follow-up, with effect sizes ranging from d = -0.28 to 0.57 (95% CI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Itzal Puchol-Martínez
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Institute of Public and Occupational Health of Navarre, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Miguel A Santed-Germán
- Department of Personality Evaluation and Psychological Treatment, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
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Nakanishi M, Stanyon D, Richards M, Yamasaki S, Ando S, Endo K, Hosozawa M, Miyashita M, Hiraiwa-Hasegawa M, Kasai K, Nishida A. Informal Caregiving in Adolescents from 10 to 16 Years Old: A Longitudinal Study Using Data from the Tokyo Teen Cohort. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6482. [PMID: 37569023 PMCID: PMC10419092 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20156482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
There is growing evidence of the impact of informal caregiving on adolescent mental health, and its role is often hidden unintentionally or intentionally, which may hamper early identification and support for young informal caregivers. However, the quantitative evidence regarding household factors relating to informal caregiving has mostly been based on cross-sectional findings. This study examines the longitudinal associations between household characteristics and the duration of informal caregiving in adolescents from 10 to 16 years of age. Child-household respondent pairs (n = 2331) from the Tokyo Teen Cohort in Japan were followed every 2 years from 10 to 16 years of age. Informal caregiving was assessed repeatedly based on the household respondent's survey responses. Persistent caregiving was defined as daily caregiving at two or more waves. There were 2.2% of children who gave daily care at two or more waves. Cross-sectional associations with daily informal caregiving at each wave were found with girls, low household income, and cohabiting with grandparents. A significant association with persistent caregiving was found only in cohabiting with grandparents at 10 years of age after adjusting for sex, number of siblings, single parent, and household income. Our longitudinal examination highlighted cohabiting with grandparents as a preceding factor for persistent caregiving. Identification and support for young informal caregivers should be integrated into social care service systems for older adults. The mechanism of persistent caregiving requires clarification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miharu Nakanishi
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai-shi 980-8575, Japan
- Mental Health Promotion Unit, Research Center for Social Science & Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Daniel Stanyon
- Mental Health Promotion Unit, Research Center for Social Science & Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Marcus Richards
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health & Ageing at UCL, University College London, London SW1H 9NA, UK
| | - Syudo Yamasaki
- Mental Health Promotion Unit, Research Center for Social Science & Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Ando
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Kaori Endo
- Mental Health Promotion Unit, Research Center for Social Science & Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Mariko Hosozawa
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Miyashita
- Mental Health Promotion Unit, Research Center for Social Science & Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Mariko Hiraiwa-Hasegawa
- Department of Evolutionary Studies of Biosystems, The Graduate University for the Advanced Studies, Hayama 240-0193, Japan
| | - Kiyoto Kasai
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
- The International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study (UTIAS), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nishida
- Mental Health Promotion Unit, Research Center for Social Science & Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
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11
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Darabos K, Faust H. Assessing health, psychological distress and financial well-being in informal young adult caregivers compared to matched young adult non-caregivers. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:2249-2260. [PMID: 36976715 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2195671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Young adult caregivers (YACs) are faced with the atypical challenge of providing informal (i.e. not paid) care to a family member, while simultaneously at a critical developmental stage in which many major life decisions and milestones are taking place. Adding the challenge of caring for a family member during this already complex time period may have a detrimental impact on young adults' (YAs) own overall health and well-being. The aim of this study was to examine differences in overall health, psychological distress, and financial strain among a propensity matched sample of YACs compared to young adult non-caregivers (YANCs) from a nationally representative database and to examine differences in these outcomes by caregiving role (caring for a child vs. other family member). YAs (aged 18-39, N = 178) identifying as a caregiver (n = 74) were matched with YANCs (n = 74) on age, gender, and race. Results revealed that YACs exhibited higher psychological distress, lower overall health and more sleep disturbance and higher financial strain compared to YANCs. YAs caring for family members other than children also reported higher anxiety and fewer hours spent caregiving compared to YAs caring for a child. YACs appear to be at risk for impairments in health and well-being compared to their matched peers. Longitudinal research is needed to understand how caregiving during young adulthood impacts health and well-being across time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Darabos
- Department of Health Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Haley Faust
- Department of Behavioral Oncology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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12
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Bou C. Factors Associated with the Quality-of-Life of Young Unpaid Carers: A Systematic Review of the Evidence from 2003 to 2019. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4807. [PMID: 36981715 PMCID: PMC10048985 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review was to identify factors influencing the quality of life (QoL) of young people providing care for family members with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and/or mental health and substance abuse problems (young unpaid carers; YC), as well as the social-care related QoL measures. Focused and broad search strategies were performed in four databases, identifying 3145 articles. Following screening, lateral searches, and quality appraisal, 54 studies were included for synthesis. An inductive approach was used to synthesise the findings, grouping factors associated with YC QoL into interrelated themes: "perceived normality of role and identifying as a carer", "social support from formal and unpaid networks", "caring demands and their impact", and "coping strategies". No social-care related QoL measures for YC were found. This systematic review provides groundwork for the development of such a tool and emphasises the need for further studies allowing the investigation of the interrelated factors affecting YC QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Bou
- NIHR School for Social Care Research, London School of Economics and Political Sciences, London WC2A 2AE, UK
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13
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Haugland BSM, Hysing M, Sivertsen B. Does It Matter Who You Provide Care for? Mental Health and Life Satisfaction in Young Adult Carers Associated with Type of Relationship and Illness Category-A National Student Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3925. [PMID: 36900936 PMCID: PMC10002356 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is limited knowledge on how caring contexts impact young adults providing informal care for persons with chronic conditions. This study examines associations between outcomes in young adult carers (YACs) and type of relationship (e.g., close or distant family member, partner, or someone outside the family) and type of illness in the care-receiver (e.g., mental, physical illness/disability, or substance abuse). A total of 37,731 students (age 18-25, mean 22.3 years, 68% females) in higher education in Norway completed a national survey on care responsibilities, hours of daily caring, relationship and type of illness, mental health problems (Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25) and life satisfaction (Satisfaction With Life Scale). More mental health problems and lower life satisfaction were found among YACs compared to students without care responsibilities. The poorest outcomes were reported by YACs caring for a partner, followed by YACs caring for a close relative. Hours spent on daily caring was highest when caring for a partner. Poorer outcomes were reported by YACs caring for someone affected by substance abuse, followed by mental health problems and physical illness/disability. At-risk groups among YACs should be acknowledged and offered support. Future studies are needed to investigate the potential mechanism for the associations between care context variables and YAC outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bente Storm Mowatt Haugland
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 17, 5009 Bergen, Norway
| | - Mari Hysing
- Department of Psychosocial Science, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Børge Sivertsen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Research & Innovation, Helse Fonna HF, 5504 Haugesund, Norway
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14
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Landi G, Pakenham KI, Cattivelli R, Grandi S, Tossani E. Caregiving Responsibilities and Mental Health Outcomes in Young Adult Carers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15149. [PMID: 36429866 PMCID: PMC9690746 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated caregiving responsibilities and associated mental health outcomes in young adult carers during the COVID-19 pandemic and had three aims: (1) to investigate differences in caregiving responsibilities across two groups of young adult carers (parental illness context vs. ill non-parent family member context) relative to non-carers, (2) to identify COVID-19/lockdown correlates of caregiving responsibilities, and (3) to examine the longitudinal associations between caregiving responsibilities and mental health outcomes. Of the 1048 Italians aged 18-29 (Mage = 24.48, SDage = 2.80; 74.33% female) who consented to complete online surveys at Time 1, 813 reported no ill family member (non-carers). Young adult carers included 162 with an ill parent and 73 with an ill non-parent family member. The study included 3 time points: 740 participants completed Time 2 assessment (Mage = 24.35, SDage = 2.81; 76.76% female), while 279 completed Time 3 assessment (Mage = 24.78, SDage = 2.72; 79.93% female). Key variables measured were 13 COVID-19/lockdown factors at Times 1 and 2, caregiving responsibilities at Time 2, and mental health outcomes at Time 3 (fear of COVID-19, anxiety, depression, wellbeing). Two COVID-19/lockdown factors were significantly correlated with higher caregiving responsibilities: insufficient home space, and greater time spent working and learning from home. As predicted, young adult carers reported higher caregiving responsibilities than non-carers, and this effect was greater in young adults caring for an ill parent compared to young adults caring for an ill non-parent family member. As expected, irrespective of family health status, caregiving responsibilities were longitudinally related to poorer mental health outcomes, operationalised as higher fear of COVID-19, anxiety, and depression, and lower wellbeing. Elevated young adult caregiving is an emerging significant public health issue that should be addressed through a multipronged approach that includes education about young adult carer needs for personnel across all relevant sectors and flexible care plans for ill family members that include a 'whole family' biopsychosocial approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Landi
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Kenneth I. Pakenham
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Roberto Cattivelli
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Silvana Grandi
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Eliana Tossani
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
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15
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Epstein R, Bock SD, Drew MJ, Scandalis Z. Infantilization across the life span: A large-scale internet study suggests that emotional abuse is especially damaging. MOTIVATION AND EMOTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11031-022-09989-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWhen competent adults are treated like children, negative outcomes sometimes follow. We used a concurrent study design to conduct an internet-based study to determine how infantilization varies by demographic category and which types of infantilization might be most harmful. The test, which measured 15 types of infantilization, was taken by 32,118 people (mean age 27.6) from 153 countries (most from the United States). Test scores were correlated with self-reported happiness, depression, anger, sense of control, and personal and professional success, and regression analyses consistently showed that of the 15 types of infantilization we measured, emotional abuse was by far the best predictor of adverse outcomes. Infantilization was highest during the teen years and decreased gradually throughout adulthood. Effects were found for gender, education, and sexual orientation, with vulnerable groups more subject to infantilization. Our data, collected between 2011 and 2020, appear to parallel recent increases in authoritarianism and intolerance, with total infantilization scores increasing by 30.1% over this period.
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16
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Dorard G, Vioulac C, Mathieu S, Ellien F, Bourgeois A, Untas A. Profiles of French young carers taking part in an arts and respite care program. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e3253-e3264. [PMID: 35199897 PMCID: PMC9539863 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Young carers (YCs) are children and adolescents who provide meaningful, regular support to a relative with a health problem. In France, only one programme exists to support them: the arts and respite care programme of the national association JADE. The aim of this study is to describe the profiles of YCs who had participated in this programme and to evaluate their expectations, opinions, and the evolution of their quality of life over the course of the programme. All YCs enrolled in the programme between 2017 and 2020 were invited to participate in the study. Upon arrival, the youths completed a self-report questionnaire addressing their sociodemographic and family situations, their caregiving activities, their quality of life, and their expectations for the programme. At the end of each week, a questionnaire evaluating their opinion of the programme and their quality of life was completed. A hundred and seventeen children participated (average age: 12; 71.8% girls). Most YCs provided support to a parent or sibling with a chronic somatic disease. The support mainly concerned doing domestic tasks and providing emotional support for the relative and was significantly higher among adolescents. Their expectations were mainly about getting respite and meeting other young people. Their levels of satisfaction were high and aligned with their expectations. Their quality of life increased significantly. French YCs in this programme had characteristics comparable to those observed internationally. The results underline the importance of respite and the benefits such a programme can bring to YCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Géraldine Dorard
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de SantéUniversité de ParisBoulogne‐BillancourtFrance
| | - Christel Vioulac
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de SantéUniversité de ParisBoulogne‐BillancourtFrance
| | - Sasha Mathieu
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de SantéUniversité de ParisBoulogne‐BillancourtFrance
| | - Françoise Ellien
- Association Nationale Jeunes AiDants EnsembleJADELe Coudray‐MontceauxFrance
- Réseau de santé plurithématique SPESLe Coudray‐MontceauxFrance
| | | | - Aurélie Untas
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de SantéUniversité de ParisBoulogne‐BillancourtFrance
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17
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Kanehara A, Morishima R, Takahashi Y, Koike H, Usui K, Sato S, Uno A, Sawai Y, Kumakura Y, Yagishita S, Usami S, Morita M, Morita K, Kanata S, Okada N, Yamasaki S, Nishida A, Ando S, Koike S, Shibuya T, Joseph S, Kasai K. Young carers in Japan: Reliability and validity testing of the BBC/University of Nottingham young carers survey questionnaire and prevalence estimation in 5000 adolescents. PCN REPORTS : PSYCHIATRY AND CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES 2022; 1:e46. [PMID: 38868693 PMCID: PMC11114284 DOI: 10.1002/pcn5.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Aim Young carers (YCs) refer to children under the age of 18 who assume responsibilities that would normally be assumed by adults, such as caring for family members in need of care. In recent years, the concept of YCs has been expanding in Japan, and the government has been rapidly implementing strategies to support them. There is a need for a survey scale for YCs that uses standardized methods that can be compared internationally. Method The BBC/University of Nottingham Survey for estimating the prevalence of YCs and caring activities of United Kingdom adolescents was translated into Japanese, and its reliability and validity were tested with 313 adolescents. Moreover, the prevalence of YCs was estimated in a school-based survey among 5000 adolescents. Results The Young Carers Scale Japanese version (YCS-J) was acceptably reliable and valid. The original six-factor model for caring activity in the Multidimensional Assessment of Caring Activities Checklist for Young Carers (MACA-YC18) was supported by confirmatory factor analysis. The prevalence of YCs among 5000 adolescents in the Tokyo metropolitan area was estimated to be 7.4%, comparable to that reported in Western countries and in recent surveys in Japan using nonstandardized methods. YCs exhibited significantly higher scores for prosocial behavior and emotional symptoms than non-YCs. Conclusions The YCS-J, as an internationally comparable instrument, will be useful for understanding the actual situation of YCs in Japan, and to disseminate and implement support through cooperation among education, welfare, and healthcare sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Kanehara
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Ryo Morishima
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
- The Health Care Science InstituteTokyoJapan
| | - Yusuke Takahashi
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
- St. Luke's International HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Haruna Koike
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Kaori Usui
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Shun‐ichi Sato
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Akito Uno
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Yutaka Sawai
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Yousuke Kumakura
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Sho Yagishita
- Department of Structural Physiology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Satoshi Usami
- Graduate School of EducationThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Masaya Morita
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Kentaro Morita
- Department of RehabilitationThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Sho Kanata
- Department of PsychiatryTeikyo University HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Naohiro Okada
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
- The International Research Center for Neurointelligence at The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced StudyThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Syudo Yamasaki
- Research Center for Social Science & MedicineTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical ScienceTokyoJapan
| | - Atsushi Nishida
- Research Center for Social Science & MedicineTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical ScienceTokyoJapan
| | - Shuntaro Ando
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Shinsuke Koike
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
- The International Research Center for Neurointelligence at The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced StudyThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- University of Tokyo Institute for Diversity & Adaptation of Human MindTokyoJapan
- University of Tokyo Center for Integrative Science of Human Behavior, Graduate School of Art and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Center for Evolutionary Cognitive Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | | | | | - Kiyoto Kasai
- Department of NeuropsychiatryThe University of Tokyo HospitalTokyoJapan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- University of Tokyo Institute for Diversity & Adaptation of Human MindTokyoJapan
- University of Tokyo Center for Integrative Science of Human Behavior, Graduate School of Art and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
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18
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Chevrier B, Dorard G, Jarrige E, Joseph S, Becker S, Leu A, Untas A. Assessing caring activities in French adolescents and young adults: Relevance of the Multidimension Assessment of Caring Activities for Young Carers (MACA-YC18). Child Care Health Dev 2022; 48:788-799. [PMID: 35181929 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young carers (YC) and young adult carers (YAC) have become of interest in research and practice. The 18-item Multidimensional Assessment of Caring Activities for Young Carers (MACA-YC18) was developed for identifying the extent and nature of caring activities across six domains: domestic chores, household management, financial/practical help, personal care, emotional care, and sibling care. The aim of this research was to investigate the psychometric properties of the French version of the MACA-YC18. METHODS Two quantitative studies were conducted in a general population among adolescents and young adults. The sample was composed of 2688 adolescents (Mage = 16.08; SDage = 0.98; 60.60% girls) in Study 1 and 1192 young adults (Mage = 20.52; SDage = 1.89; 78.27% girls) in Study 2. The psychometric properties were examined via construct validity through internal consistencies, confirmatory factorial analysis, and invariance measurement regarding: gender (girls vs. boys), having a sick/disabled relative (having vs. not), relative's type of illness/disability (physical illness vs. mental illness vs. other illnesses/disabilities), providing support to a sick/disabled relative (providing vs. not), and living arrangement (with family vs. not). RESULTS In both studies, internal consistencies were in line with those reported in the literature, the 6-factor structure was confirmed, and strict invariances were highlighted. CONCLUSIONS Results show that the French version of the MACA-YC18 has good psychometric properties regarding construct validity not only among adolescents but also among young adults. This instrument appears to be a relevant screening tool for identifying and characterizing young carers in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Géraldine Dorard
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université de Paris, Boulogne-Billancour, France
| | - Eléonore Jarrige
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université de Paris, Boulogne-Billancour, France
| | - Stephen Joseph
- School of Education, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Saul Becker
- Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Agnes Leu
- Careum School of Health, Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences, Zürich, Switzerland.,Medical Faculty, Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Aurélie Untas
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université de Paris, Boulogne-Billancour, France
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19
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Warhurst A, Bayless S, Maynard E. Teachers' Perceptions of Supporting Young Carers in Schools: Identifying Support Needs and the Importance of Home-School Relationships. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191710755. [PMID: 36078470 PMCID: PMC9518563 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Recognition and support for young carers has improved steadily in the past two decades; with stronger legislation and more visibility and awareness of the challenges that many of the YC face, especially with respect to their education. Recent UK-based initiatives providing toolkits and guidance for school staff have provided much needed direction for schools, to support the loosely defined statutory requirements. The aim of the current research was to hear from school staff about their experiences in identifying and supporting young carers, to better understand any enablers and barriers. The thematic analysis of the interview data from 18 school staff was organized into two main themes: perceptions regarding the characteristics of young carers; and perceptions regarding the importance of home-school communication. Each superordinate theme contained several sub-themes. Overall, the teachers perceived many difficulties identifying young carers who did not volunteer this information and felt that the main enabler of identification was the trust relationships between the school and the pupil and parents. Once identified, the schools perceived the main areas of need that they could provide support for were the emotional wellbeing of the pupils and additional academic opportunities. They spoke too of the difficulties balancing the provision of this extra support within the constraints of the school context, both in terms of the school day, and the competing priorities relating to academic and social-emotional needs. School staff recognized that extra time outside of school was difficult for young carers to attend. Other subthemes are discussed with consideration to enablers and barriers. The implications for the dissemination of good practice, and addressing policy are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Warhurst
- Department of Psychology, University of Winchester, Winchester SO22 4NR, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)-1962-675132
| | - Sarah Bayless
- Department of Psychology, University of Winchester, Winchester SO22 4NR, UK
| | - Emma Maynard
- Department of Child & Family Health, King’s College London, James Clark Maxwell Building, London SE1 8WA, UK
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20
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Pilato J, Dorard G, Chevrier B, Leu A, Untas A. Quality of Life of Adolescents Facing a Parental Illness: A Person-Oriented Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19137892. [PMID: 35805549 PMCID: PMC9265890 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Studies that have investigated the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of adolescents facing a parental illness showed inconsistent results, and none used a person-oriented approach allowing for a deeper understanding of their experience. The aim of this study was to compare the HRQoL of adolescents facing a parental illness to that of their peers, and to explore their HRQoL through a person-oriented approach. The sample consisted of 1324 adolescents recruited in secondary schools (11–15 years old). Adolescents completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic characteristics, parental illness, HRQoL (KIDSCREEN-52), and academic performance and caring activities (MACA-YC18). Adolescents facing a parental illness showed significantly lower HRQoL than their peers on all dimensions. The cluster analysis yielded five patterns of HRQoL among adolescents facing a parental illness: Low HRQoL; High HRQoL; Moderate HRQoL with High Social Acceptance; High Well-Being, High Moods and Emotions, and High Social Support and Peers. These clusters differed according to demographics, the type of parental illness, illness perception, academic performance, and level of caring activities. The Low HRQoL cluster showed especially low academic performance and high level of caring activities. This multidimensional HRQoL evaluation thus helps to foreground the diversity of these adolescents’ experiences in order to better address their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Pilato
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 92100 Boulogne Billancourt, France; (G.D.); (A.U.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Géraldine Dorard
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 92100 Boulogne Billancourt, France; (G.D.); (A.U.)
| | - Basilie Chevrier
- PSYCLE, Aix-Marseille Université, 13628 Aix-en-Provence, France;
| | - Agnes Leu
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Aurélie Untas
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 92100 Boulogne Billancourt, France; (G.D.); (A.U.)
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21
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Landi G, Pakenham KI, Grandi S, Tossani E. Young Adult Carers during the Pandemic: The Effects of Parental Illness and Other Ill Family Members on COVID-19-Related and General Mental Health Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063391. [PMID: 35329079 PMCID: PMC8950288 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on young adult carers have been neglected. This study aimed to identify COVID-19 related risk factors for young adult carers and to investigate their mental health relative to non-carer peers. Of the 1823 Italians aged 18–29 who completed an online survey, 1458 reported no ill family member (non-carers). Young adult carers included 268 with an ill parent, and 97 with an ill non-parent family member. Two mental health outcome categories were measured: COVID-19-related (risky health behaviors, loneliness, home violence, fear of COVID-19) and general (anxiety, depression, wellbeing). Six COVID-19 related risk factors were significantly correlated with poorer mental health in young adult carers. These factors constituted a COVID-19 Context Index. Compared to non-carers, young adult carers reported poorer mental health across all outcomes, as expected. The prediction that young adult carers caring for an ill parent would report poorer mental health than those caring for ill non-parent family members was evident only for the COVID-19-related mental health outcomes. The elevated rates of clinically significant distress and pandemic-related mental health problems among young adult carers highlight this group as a priority for mental health promotion interventions and whole-of-family support across multiple sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Landi
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (S.G.); (E.T.)
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Kenneth I. Pakenham
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Silvana Grandi
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (S.G.); (E.T.)
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Eliana Tossani
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (S.G.); (E.T.)
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
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22
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Study progress, recreational activities, and loneliness in young adult carers: a national student survey. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:43. [PMID: 35219334 PMCID: PMC8882268 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00760-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adults (18-25 years) with informal care responsibilities have received limited attention in the research literature, and little is known on how caring responsibilities are related to functioning across different life domains. In the present study we examine associations between care responsibilities and study progress, recreational life, and loneliness in young adults in higher education. METHODS A national survey was conducted among Norwegian students in higher education (the SHoT2018-study). The response rate was 30.8%. The current sample is a subsample of the respondents, including young adults 18 to 25 years old, comprising 40.205 participants (70.2% women, mean age 22.0 years, SD = 1.7). Participants reported whether they had regular care responsibility for someone with physical or mental illness, disabilities, or substance misuse. They also answered questions on study progress, number of hours studying, physical exercise, involvement in organized volunteer student activities, number of close friends, and feelings of loneliness. Data were analyzed by Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses, adjusting for age, sex, and chronic illness. RESULTS Compared to students without care responsibility, young adult carers (n = 2228, 5.5% of study sample) were more likely to report delayed study progress (OR 1.20, p < .001), higher average number of failed exams (e.g., having failed three times or more, OR 1.31, p = .002), more feelings of loneliness (OR 1.26, p < .001), and slightly fewer friends. Those with limited care responsibility (≤ 1 h daily) were more likely to participate in organized volunteer student activities, whereas students with 2 h or more of caring per day were less likely to participate in leisure student activities. Both study progress and feelings of loneliness were related to care responsibility in a response-dose pattern, with worse outcomes for those with 2 h or more of daily caring responsibility. All comparisons were adjusted for age, sex, and chronic illness. CONCLUSIONS Study progress, recreational activities, and loneliness among young adults are associated with informal caring responsibilities. Professionals in the educational system as well as health personnel should be sensitized to the needs of young adult carers and necessary support made available.
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Gallagher S, Daynes-Kearney R, Bowman-Grangel A, Dunne N, McMahon J. Life satisfaction, social participation and symptoms of depression in young adult carers: evidence from 21 European countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENCE AND YOUTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2021.2025115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Gallagher
- Department of Psychology, Study of Anxiety Stress and Health, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Rosemary Daynes-Kearney
- Department of Psychology, Study of Anxiety Stress and Health, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Aoife Bowman-Grangel
- Department of Psychology, Study of Anxiety Stress and Health, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Jennifer McMahon
- Department of Psychology, Study of Anxiety Stress and Health, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Growing up with a Chronically Ill Family Member-The Impact on and Support Needs of Young Adult Carers: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020855. [PMID: 35055678 PMCID: PMC8776224 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
This scoping review provides an overview of the impact of growing up with a chronically ill family member on young adults (18-25 years old), and their specific needs. Young adults represent an important life stage involving a transition to adulthood, during which individuals' family situations can affect their future. We searched relevant studies following the guideline of Arskey and O'Mailley's methodological framework and the PRISMA statement guidelines for scoping reviews in PubMed, PsychInfo and reference lists to identify articles for inclusion. Studies from 2005 to 2020 were included in this review. Of the 12 studies, six qualitative studies, five quantitative studies and one mixed method study were included. Eight studies discussed the impact, including consequences at a physical and mental level, at their personal development and future perspectives, but also positive effects, such as being capable of organizing their lives. Four studies discussed the needs of young adult carers, including emotional needs, support needs with regard to stimulating autonomy (arising from internal conflicts) and developing their own identity, and the concerned attitude of involved professionals. An unambiguous definition of the target group and further well-designed research are needed to improve clarity about the role of support, so that future professionals can adequately address the needs and wishes of young adults who grow up with an ill family member.
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25
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Tossani E, Verrocchio MC, Romer G, Landi G. Editorial: Transgenerational Effects of Parental Physical and Mental Illnesses on Their Young Offspring's Adjustment: A Psychosomatic Perspective. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:901177. [PMID: 35573323 PMCID: PMC9099003 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.901177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eliana Tossani
- Department of Psychology "Renzo Canestrari", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Verrocchio
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University "Gabriele d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Georg Romer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Giulia Landi
- Department of Psychology "Renzo Canestrari", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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26
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Mental health of young informal carers: a systematic review. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2022; 57:2345-2358. [PMID: 35798995 PMCID: PMC9263065 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-022-02333-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic review aims to assess and evaluate quantitative evidence on the association between informal caregiving and mental health in young people. METHODS This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021251666). We conducted our search in the following four databases: Medline (PubMed and OVID), EMBASE, PsycInfo and Web of Science. The last search was performed on the 17th of March of 2021. Quantitative studies that focused on carers aged 25 years or less and compared the mental health status of carers and non-carers were eligible for inclusion. Two reviewers independently assessed articles for eligibility and performed the quality assessment using the Risk of Bias tool in Non-Randomised Studies of Exposures (ROBINS-E). RESULTS We identified a total of ten eligible articles. Mental health outcomes included depression, anxiety and other mental or emotional problems. Nine out of the ten studies showed that being a young carer was consistently associated with poor mental health. However, the overall quality of evidence was low, and longitudinal data were limited to three articles. The primary sources of bias were confounding and outcome measurement. CONCLUSION Young carers experience poorer mental health outcomes than their non-caring peers. However, we identified an overall lack of quantitative evidence of high methodological rigour. To establish if young caring leads to poor mental health, future research should focus on addressing the identified methodological limitations and understanding the mechanisms explaining these associations. Addressing these gaps can better inform the allocation of appropriate support and resources to optimise the mental health of young carers.
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27
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Justin P, Dorard G, Untas A. Comment accompagner les jeunes aidants confrontés au cancer d’un proche ? PSYCHO-ONCOLOGIE 2021. [DOI: 10.3166/pson-2021-0166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
La littérature montre que de nombreux enfants et adolescents confrontés au cancer d’un proche apportent une aide significative et régulière. Ces jeunes sont nommés jeunes aidants (JA). Cette situation a des conséquences importantes sur le bien-être et la qualité de vie de ces jeunes. Pourtant, les JA sont aujourd’hui peu identifiés et reconnus en France, et il existe peu de dispositifs pour les soutenir. Cet article se propose d’exposer la place des JA dans le cancer dans notre société, leurs besoins et les dispositifs d’accompagnement pouvant y répondre.
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28
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Hergert DC, Cimino CR. Predictors of Caregiver Burden in Huntington's Disease. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2021; 36:1426–1437. [PMID: 33723593 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acab009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Huntington's disease (HD) is a genetic neurodegenerative condition that is characterized by cognitive, motor, and psychiatric dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to explore which disease characteristics influence caregiver burden in HD. METHODS Fifty participants with HD and 50 of their caregivers participated in the study at the University of South Florida. Participants were administered a neuropsychological battery, the Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale (UHDRS) motor exam, and the Frontal Systems Behavior Scale (FrSBe) self-report. Caregivers completed the Caregiving Appraisal Scale and the FrSBe family-report. RESULTS There were significant correlations between caregiver burden and caregiver age and sex, UHDRS motor scores, cognitive functioning, and self and caregiver-reported FrSBe scores. The significant variables were entered into a regression model and explained 63.1% of the variance in caregiver burden scores. Caregiver age, cognitive functioning, and caregiver-reported FrSBe scores continued to be significant predictors of caregiver burden, whereas the other variables were no longer significant. CONCLUSIONS There were significant relationships between caregiver burden, cognitive functioning, and frontally mediated behaviors, but not motor scores. The results suggest that possible interventions for caregivers may include education to caregivers on how to cope with apathy/executive dysfunction and cognitive decline. Caregiver age was associated with burden, with younger age being associated with increased burden when controlling for symptom severity. This has implications for this population in that HD typically has a younger age of onset than other neurodegenerative diseases and therefore, these caregivers may be particularly at risk for caregiver burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle C Hergert
- New Mexico Department of Health, Developmental Disabilities Supports Division, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Cynthia R Cimino
- Deparment of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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29
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Illness unpredictability and psychosocial adjustment of adolescent and young adults impacted by parental cancer: the mediating role of unmet needs. Support Care Cancer 2021; 30:145-155. [PMID: 34241699 PMCID: PMC8636435 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06379-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Given the large number of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) impacted by parental cancer and the potential for negative psychosocial outcomes in this vulnerable population, this study examined the mediating role of offspring unmet needs with regard to parental cancer and the relation between AYAs psychosocial adjustment and perceived illness unpredictability. Methods A total of 113 AYAs (aged 11–24 years) living with a parent diagnosed with cancer completed a questionnaire assessing illness unpredictability, offspring unmet needs, and psychosocial adjustment (i.e., health-related quality of life and internalizing problems). Results Higher offspring unmet needs were associated with lower health-related quality of life (r = –0.24**) and higher internalizing problems (r = 0.21*). Offspring unmet needs mediated the relation between illness unpredictability and health-related quality of life (standardized indirect effect = –0.100* [–0.183, –0.018]) but not internalizing problems (standardized indirect effect = 0.067 [–0.015, 0.148]). In particular, higher illness unpredictability was related to higher unmet needs (β = 0.351**) which, in turn, predicted lower health-related quality of life (β = –0.286**). Conclusion These findings identify offspring unmet needs and illness unpredictability as implicated in AYAs positive psychosocial adjustment to parental cancer. Given that AYAs are at greater risk of elevated psychosocial difficulties, interventions should target offspring unmet needs and perception of illness unpredictability to mitigate the adverse effects of parental cancer.
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30
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Kallander EK, Weimand BM, Hanssen-Bauer K, Van Roy B, Ruud T. Factors associated with quality of life for children affected by parental illness or substance abuse. Scand J Caring Sci 2021; 35:405-419. [PMID: 32383213 DOI: 10.1111/scs.12868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been inconsistent findings from studies examining factors associated with quality of life (QoL) for children affected by parental illness. AIM The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with self-reported QoL in children affected by parental illness or parental substance abuse. DESIGN A cross-sectional multicentre study. METHODS The sample included 246 families with children 8-18 years recruited via ill parents who received treatment for severe physical illness, mental illness or substance abuse in specialised health services. We performed multiple linear regression analyses to examine factors associated with the children's self-reported QoL. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE KIDSCREEN-27. RESULTS The children's self-reported QoL was positively associated with the ill parent's self-reported physical health, the children's self-reported social skills, the degree to which other adults took over the ill parent's responsibilities, provision of sibling care, provision of health care for the ill parent and positive outcome of caregiving. The children's QoL was negatively associated with the children's self-reported responsibilities due to parental illness, provision of emotional care for the ill parent, negative outcomes of caregiving and external locus of control. The model explained 63% of the variance (adjusted R2 ) in children's total QoL. STUDY LIMITATIONS Sampling bias may have occurred during recruitment. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest factors of importance for the children's QoL. Clinicians should assess whether an ill parent's physical health may influence negatively on their ability to perform daily responsibilities at home and care for their children, and clinicians can use children's self-reported QoL to identify children who are most negatively affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Katrine Kallander
- Division of Mental Health Services, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Fafo Research Foundation, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bente M Weimand
- Division of Mental Health Services, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ketil Hanssen-Bauer
- Division of Mental Health Services, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Betty Van Roy
- Department of CAMHS, Clinic of Children and Adolescent Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Torleif Ruud
- Division of Mental Health Services, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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31
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Justin P, Lamore K, Dorard G, Untas A. Are there young carers in oncology? A systematic review. Psychooncology 2021; 30:1430-1441. [PMID: 33993613 PMCID: PMC9292599 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Objective This systematic review aims to investigate the support children provide in the case of a relative's cancer. Methods Searches were performed on four electronic databases (Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed and ScienceDirect) to identify studies that report on the support provided by children to a relative diagnosed with cancer. Two researchers independently evaluated the eligibility of the studies and cross‐checked them for accuracy. The Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool (CCAT) was used to assess the quality of the studies included. Results Out of the 10948 articles screened, 30 were included in this review. Results highlighted that cancer provokes changes in families, such as shifts in roles and increased responsibilities for the youth. Children often provided significant support to their sick relative and family members, including practical, emotional, and medical support such as household duties, medical assistance, companionship, and distraction. However, they were designated as young carers in only one study. The support provided was associated with negative effects such as stress and fatigue, and with positive effects such as increased empathy and independence. Children wished to support their family but also named several needs, such as time for themselves and the opportunity to enjoy their childhood. Conclusion The results of this systematic review highlight the importance of taking into account the support provided by young people facing the cancer of a relative and designating them as young carers. Much remains to be accomplished to officially recognize their role and to support them properly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Justin
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université de Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Kristopher Lamore
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université de Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Géraldine Dorard
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université de Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Aurélie Untas
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université de Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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A Model of the Effects of Parental Illness on Youth Adjustment and Family Functioning: The Moderating Effects of Psychological Flexibility on Youth Caregiving and Stress. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094902. [PMID: 34064517 PMCID: PMC8124913 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Parental chronic illness may adversely impact youth and family functioning. This study examined a moderated mediation model of the effects of parental illness on youth and family functioning derived from the Family Ecology Framework. Consistent with this model, we predicted that youth caregiving and stress would serially mediate the adverse impacts of parental illness on youth adjustment and family functioning and that psychological flexibility would moderate these mediational mechanisms. A total of 387 youth, with parents affected by chronic illness, completed a questionnaire assessing parental illness severity, youth caregiving and stress, psychological flexibility, youth adjustment (i.e., internalizing and externalizing problems and psychological wellbeing), and family functioning. Path analyses indicated that the adverse effects of parental illness on youth adjustment and family functioning were serially mediated by youth caregiving and stress. Psychological flexibility buffered the adverse effects of these serial mediators on youth internalizing problems and psychological wellbeing. These findings identified three potential intervention targets: youth caregiving, related stress appraisals, and psychological flexibility. Given the large body of evidence showing that acceptance and commitment therapy fosters psychological flexibility, this intervention approach has the potential to address the psychosocial and mental health vulnerabilities of youth in the context of parental illness, which constitutes a serious public health issue.
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33
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Justin P, Dorard G, Vioulac C, Leu A, Untas A. What do French school staff know about young carers? A qualitative study about their perceptions. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pits.22510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Justin
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé Université de Paris Boulogne‐Billancourt France
| | - Géraldine Dorard
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé Université de Paris Boulogne‐Billancourt France
| | - Christel Vioulac
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé Université de Paris Boulogne‐Billancourt France
| | - Agnes Leu
- Careum School of Health Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences Zürich Switzerland
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics, Medical Faculty University of Basel Basel Switzerland
| | - Aurélie Untas
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé Université de Paris Boulogne‐Billancourt France
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D'Amen B, Socci M, Santini S. Intergenerational caring: a systematic literature review on young and young adult caregivers of older people. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:105. [PMID: 33546605 PMCID: PMC7863294 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-01976-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The theme of young family caregivers of older relatives is still partially uncovered, although the phenomenon is increasing worldwide. This Systematic Literature Review discusses methodological and content issues of ten articles covering this topic, in order to contribute to increase the knowledge and provide suggestions for designing effective support services for adolescent young caregivers. To this purpose, the findings of this review are framed within the caregiving stress appraisal model (renamed CSA model) elaborated by Yates' and collegues, in order to highlight differences between young caregivers and the older ones. METHODS Multiple databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest - Psychology Database, CINAHL Complete - EBSCOHost were used to carry out a systematic review of the literature. Additional references were retrieved from experts contacted and research knowledge. The selected articles underwent both methodological appraisal and contents analysis: for every article an appraisal score was calculated and themes and sub-themes were identified. RESULTS Out of the ten included studies three were mixed methods, six qualitative and one quantitative. Nine reached a high quality methodological score and one medium. Four main themes emerged from the content analysis: aspects of the caregiving relationship; effects of caregiving; coping strategies; recommendations for services, policy and research. CONCLUSIONS Selected studies explored practical features of the relationship between young caregivers and older family members (tasks performed, motivations, coping strategies) and highlighted both positive and negative outcomes on young people's everyday life condition and future development. Nevertheless, these evidences were often limited to small samples that did not allow to make generalizations. More studies are needed including large samples in order to deepen the different aspects of caregiving and design tailored support services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara D'Amen
- Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Aging, IRCCS INRCA - National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, Via Santa Margherita 5, 60124, Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Socci
- Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Aging, IRCCS INRCA - National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, Via Santa Margherita 5, 60124, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Sara Santini
- Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Aging, IRCCS INRCA - National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, Via Santa Margherita 5, 60124, Ancona, Italy
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35
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Landi G, Pakenham KI, Crocetti E, Grandi S, Tossani E. Examination of the tripartite model of youth caregiving in the context of parental illness. Psychol Health 2021; 37:397-418. [PMID: 33417502 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2020.1870116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study refined the conceptualisation of youth caregiving by testing the tripartite model of youth caregiving proposed by Pakenham and Cox, comprising caregiving responsibilities, experiences, and tasks. We also investigated convergent validity of the model by examining the unique and joint contributions of the three youth caregiving components to youth adjustment outcomes. DESIGN A total of 681 Italian youth, 325 young carers and 356 non-carers, aged 11 to 24 years participated in a cross-sectional study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants completed a questionnaire assessing demographics, youth caregiving, and psychosocial adjustment. RESULTS Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that compared to a one-factor model, the three-factor youth caregiving model provided a better fit to the data in the young carer and non-carer subgroups. The three youth caregiving components predicted variations in youth adjustment. Caregiving experiences were the strongest predictor of poorer youth adjustment while caregiving tasks predicted improvement in two youth adjustment outcomes in diverse youth caregiving contexts. CONCLUSIONS Findings support the validity of a three-factor model of youth caregiving, indicating that caregiving responsibilities, experiences, and tasks represent empirically distinct but related youth caregiving components. Interventions should mitigate the adverse and cultivate the positive effects of youth caregiving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Landi
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Kenneth Ian Pakenham
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Silvana Grandi
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Eliana Tossani
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
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Delaruelle K, Dierckens M, Vandendriessche A, Deforche B, Poppe L. Adolescents' sleep quality in relation to peer, family and school factors: findings from the 2017/2018 HBSC study in Flanders. Qual Life Res 2020; 30:55-65. [PMID: 32865698 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-020-02614-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE While a multitude of studies focused on biological and behavioral determinants of adolescents' sleep quality, a paucity of research examined the impact of social factors. The current study therefore examines the relationship between adolescents' sleep quality and peer, family and school factors. METHODS Data of Flemish participants in the 2017/2018 Health Behavior in School-aged Children survey (HBSC) were used, which is representative of the adolescent population (11-18 years) in Flanders. Adolescents' sleep quality was linked to individual-level data on peer relationships (i.e., peer support), family relationships (i.e., family support, perceived family wealth, caregiving responsibilities) and school relationships (i.e., teacher support, school support, school pressure) and contextual-level data on the school culture. Three-level multilevel models were fitted to account for the clustering of individuals (N = 8153) within classes (N = 769) and classes within schools (N = 177). RESULTS The individual-level results indicated that adolescents' sleep quality was positively related to family support, teacher support, student support and perceived family wealth. In contrast, adolescents' sleep quality was negatively related to caregiving responsibilities and school pressure. In addition, the contextual-level results pointed out that adolescents tended to report better sleep quality in less-demanding schools. CONCLUSION These findings highlight the need to consider social factors in promoting better sleep in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrijn Delaruelle
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium. .,Health Promotion Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Maxim Dierckens
- Health Promotion Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ann Vandendriessche
- Health Promotion Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Benedicte Deforche
- Health Promotion Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.,Movement and Nutrition for Health and Performance Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Elsene, Belgium
| | - Louise Poppe
- Health Promotion Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Landi G, Andreozzi MS, Pakenham KI, Grandi S, Tossani E. Psychosocial adjustment of young offspring in the context of parental type 1 and type 2 diabetes: a systematic review. Diabet Med 2020; 37:1103-1113. [PMID: 32043620 DOI: 10.1111/dme.14271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To identify all available research on psychosocial outcomes in young people who have a parent with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. METHODS Embase, PsychInfo, Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and ProQuest Social Sciences databases were searched according to a registered study protocol (PROSPERO CRD42019125301). Quality assessment, data extraction and data synthesis were carried out. RESULTS The initial search yielded 11 599 articles, 10 of which met the criteria for this review: six for type 1 diabetes and four for type 2 diabetes. Through thematic analysis, five categories emerged related to offspring psychosocial adjustment: offspring mental health, offspring physical health, offspring personal resources, parental illness characteristics and offspring caregiving. Overall, there were few studies focusing solely on the effects of parental type 1 and type 2 diabetes on young people. From the limited available research, there is weak evidence suggesting both parental types of diabetes can adversely impact young offspring. Illness-related variables were only explored in parental type 1 diabetes studies, while offspring caregiving was only examined in parental type 2 diabetes studies. CONCLUSIONS Research on the effects of parental diabetes on young people is scarce; however, there was weak evidence to suggest some young people are at risk of adverse psychosocial impacts. Given the rise in the incidence of diabetes globally, there is a pressing public health need to conduct more rigorously designed studies to ascertain the extent to which young people are at risk of mental and physical health problems and to identify risk and protective factors associated with youth adjustment in the context of parental diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Landi
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M S Andreozzi
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - K I Pakenham
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - S Grandi
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Tossani
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Jarrige E, Dorard G, Untas A. Revue de la littérature sur les jeunes aidants : qui sont-ils et comment les aider ? PRAT PSYCHOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prps.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Landi G, Boccolini G, Giovagnoli S, Pakenham KI, Grandi S, Tossani E. Validation of the Italian Young Carer of Parents Inventory-Revised (YCOPI-R). Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:795-806. [PMID: 32567411 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1780478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Parental illness or disability has wide ranging impacts on offspring. Due to the lack of an Italian contextually sensitive measure of youth caregiving, this study explored the factor structure, reliability, and validity of the Italian version of the Young Carer of Parents Inventory-Revised (YCOPI-R).Materials and methods: Seven hundred and seventy-four youth aged 11-24 (386 young carers and 388 young non-carers) completed a questionnaire regarding youth caregiving, parental illness, caregiving context variables, and youth adjustment.Results: The Italian YCOPI-R demonstrated good psychometric properties. Part A factor structure was replicated while two new factors emerged for Part B: Caregiving Stigma and Caregiving Resentment. Discriminant and convergent validity were evinced by differentiation between young carers and non-carers and associations between YCOPI-R factors and measures of caregiving activities and caregiving context. Predictive validity was supported as most Italian YCOPI-R factors were related to poorer youth adjustment, while Caregiving Confidence and Worry about Parents predicted higher levels of health-related quality of life.Conclusions: The Italian YCOPI-R is a psychometrically sound measure of caregiving experiences in Italian youth. Findings confirm the multidimensional nature of youth caregiving, the mix of costs and rewards associated with it, and the link between youth caregiving and diverse adjustment outcomes.Implications for rehabilitationGiven the global rise in the number of youth caring for an ill or disabled family member and the association between youth caregiving and greater risks for mental and physical health problems, elevated youth caregiving is a significant public health issue.The Italian version of the YCOPI-R is a valid and reliable measure of youth caregiving experiences in the Italian context.The Italian YCOPI-R offers a promising tool for better identifying young carers who are at risk for adverse psychosocial outcomes and in evaluating young carer support services and preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Landi
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giada Boccolini
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Giovagnoli
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Silvana Grandi
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Eliana Tossani
- Laboratory of Psychosomatics and Clinimetrics, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Dharampal R, Ani C. The emotional and mental health needs of young carers: what psychiatry can do. BJPsych Bull 2020; 44:112-120. [PMID: 31739811 PMCID: PMC8058813 DOI: 10.1192/bjb.2019.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS AND METHOD To review the literature on the emotional and mental health needs of young carers of parents with mental illness and the extent to which such needs are recognised and supported by professionals. Three databases were systematically searched from 2008 to 2018, and five studies met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS The key findings were that young caregivers had a significantly higher dose-response mortality risk than their peers; were at increased risk of mental health difficulties, especially where the ill family member was a parent and had mental illness or misused substances; were overlooked by professionals owing to a lack of awareness; but could derive benefits from their caring role when appropriately supported. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Young carers are at increased risk regarding emotional and mental health needs; this risk could be mitigated by professionals recognising the young carer's role and including them in their parent's treatment plan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cornelius Ani
- Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Imperial College London, UK
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Kavanaugh MS, Cho CC, Howard M, Fee D, Barkhaus PE. US data on children and youth caregivers in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neurology 2020; 94:e1452-e1459. [PMID: 32188763 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000009217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An estimated 1.4 million young caregivers (<19 years of age) in the United States provide care to ill family members yet remain hidden from state and national caregiving programs and services, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) caregiving services. Given the intensive care needs and acuity of ALS, appreciation of the young caregiver experience within the family context may have a significant impact on patient and family quality of life. This article seeks to identify family and youth caregiver characteristics and perceptions of care through interviews with 38 youth caregivers and their families with ALS. METHODS Online adult surveys and follow-up youth interviews were conducted with families with ALS across the United States in this cross-sectional study. Participants were accessed through chapters of the ALS Association. Both thematic content analysis and descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS Youth caregivers (n = 38) ranged in age from 8 to 18 years and spent an average of 5 h/d providing care for an average of 12 tasks. Persons with ALS relied on youth primarily due to cost and identified complex feelings about relying on youth caregivers, including feeling like a failure, guilty, but proud. CONCLUSION Youth are intricately involved in all areas of caregiving in ALS. They are isolated and have little training or guidance in care, yet they are able to identify ways to manage their care burden. Results provide clear implications for health care professionals in designing best care and support practices for persons with ALS and their young caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda S Kavanaugh
- From Social Work (M.S.K., M.H.), Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, College of Health Science (C.C.C.), and Center for Aging and Translational Research (C.C.C.), University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (M.H.); and Departments of Neurology (D.F., P.E.B.) and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (P.E.B.), ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic (D.F., P.E.B.), and Neuromuscular and Autonomics Program (D.F., P.E.B.), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
| | - Chi C Cho
- From Social Work (M.S.K., M.H.), Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, College of Health Science (C.C.C.), and Center for Aging and Translational Research (C.C.C.), University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (M.H.); and Departments of Neurology (D.F., P.E.B.) and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (P.E.B.), ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic (D.F., P.E.B.), and Neuromuscular and Autonomics Program (D.F., P.E.B.), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | - Megan Howard
- From Social Work (M.S.K., M.H.), Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, College of Health Science (C.C.C.), and Center for Aging and Translational Research (C.C.C.), University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (M.H.); and Departments of Neurology (D.F., P.E.B.) and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (P.E.B.), ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic (D.F., P.E.B.), and Neuromuscular and Autonomics Program (D.F., P.E.B.), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | - Dominic Fee
- From Social Work (M.S.K., M.H.), Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, College of Health Science (C.C.C.), and Center for Aging and Translational Research (C.C.C.), University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (M.H.); and Departments of Neurology (D.F., P.E.B.) and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (P.E.B.), ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic (D.F., P.E.B.), and Neuromuscular and Autonomics Program (D.F., P.E.B.), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | - Paul E Barkhaus
- From Social Work (M.S.K., M.H.), Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, College of Health Science (C.C.C.), and Center for Aging and Translational Research (C.C.C.), University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (M.H.); and Departments of Neurology (D.F., P.E.B.) and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (P.E.B.), ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic (D.F., P.E.B.), and Neuromuscular and Autonomics Program (D.F., P.E.B.), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
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Haugland BSM, Hysing M, Sivertsen B. The Burden of Care: A National Survey on the Prevalence, Demographic Characteristics and Health Problems Among Young Adult Carers Attending Higher Education in Norway. Front Psychol 2020; 10:2859. [PMID: 32038347 PMCID: PMC6989434 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of the present study was to examine prevalence, characteristics and health outcomes among young adults (18 to 25 years) who provide informal care to family members or others with physical or mental illnesses, substance misuse or disabilities. Design The sample was obtained from a national survey in Norway from 2018 among students in higher education (the SHoT2018-study). The current sample comprise 40,205 participants, 70.2% women, mean age 22 years (SD = 1.7). Outcome Measures Participants answered questions on care responsibilities, mental health problems (The Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25), insomnia (sleep questionnaire), somatic health (Somatic Symptom Scale-8), and life satisfaction (Satisfaction With Life Scale). Results 5.5% of the respondents reported having care responsibilities. Caring was associated with being female, single, having divorced parents, being an immigrant, and having financial difficulties. More mental health problems, insomnia, somatic symptoms, and lower life satisfaction were found among respondents with care responsibilities. Number of hours of caring was associated with negative health outcomes in a dose-response pattern. Conclusion Professionals within health care, social services and the educational system should be sensitized to the needs of young adults with care responsibilities for family members or others with illness, substance misuse, or disabilities. The negative health problems among these young adult carers (YACs) should be acknowledged, and adequate support made available.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mari Hysing
- Department of Psychosocial Science, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Børge Sivertsen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Research and Innovation, Helse Fonna HF, Haugesund, Norway
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Adaptation to the disease – the psychological resources of families struggling with multiple sclerosis. HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY REPORT 2020. [DOI: 10.5114/hpr.2020.94722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Cho A, Lee S. Exploring effects of childhood parentification on adult-depressive symptoms in Korean college students. J Clin Psychol 2018; 75:801-813. [PMID: 30536404 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored parentification dimensions, the age of onset, duration, and family circumstances to better understand the characteristics of parentification and its impact on depressive symptoms among Korean college students. METHOD A sample of South Korean college students (N = 316, aged 18-29 years, 66.1% female) rated their childhood parentification experiences and current depressive symptoms. RESULTS Overall, there were few significant differences in parentification dimensions and depressive symptoms regarding family circumstances that contributed to parentification. Longer duration and earlier onset of parentification were significantly associated with higher depressive symptom scores in adulthood. However, only perceived unfairness was associated with depressive symptoms after controlling for the age of onset, duration, and other parentification dimensions. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest the importance of examining situational contexts of parentification to better capture the effects of childhood parentification on depressive symptoms in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- AhRa Cho
- Department of Child Welfare and Studies, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - SoYean Lee
- Department of Child Welfare and Studies, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, South Korea
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The Relationship Between Family Caregiving and the Mental Health of Emerging Young Adult Caregivers. J Behav Health Serv Res 2018; 44:551-563. [PMID: 27460072 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-016-9526-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Caring for dependent relatives has become a normative challenge for families in the USA and throughout the world. The study objective was to examine the relationship of family caregiving responsibilities and the mental health and well-being of individuals, ages 18-24 years, referred to as emerging young adults. It was hypothesized that young adult caregivers with past and present responsibilities would report significantly more symptoms of depression and anxiety, have lower self-esteem, and use less adaptive coping styles than non-caregiving peers. The sample consisted of 353 undergraduates (81 past caregivers, 76 current/past caregivers, and 196 non-caregivers). Caregivers were also evaluated in terms of care recipients, duration of caregiving, tasks, and hours of effort. Caregivers had significantly higher levels of symptoms of depression and anxiety than non-caregivers. Research to clarify how caregiving interacts with other stressors in emerging young adults and influences behavioral health should be a priority.
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Medication administration by caregiving youth: An inside look at how adolescents manage medications for family members. J Adolesc 2018; 69:33-43. [PMID: 30223151 DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children take on the role of family caregiver throughout the world. No prior published research exists surrounding the particular circumstances of the task of medication administration and management by these youth, which was explored in this study. METHODS A series of focus groups were conducted using semi-structured interviews of 28 previously identified caregiving youth ages 12-19 years old who live in the United States. Data analysis followed guidelines of conventional content analysis. RESULTS The following categories emerged about youth caregivers handling medications: 1) tasks involve organizational and administrative responsibilities; 2) youth have varying degrees of knowledge pertaining to these medications; 3) most share responsibility with other family members; 4) they lack formal education about their responsibilities; 5) multiple challenges exist relating to this task; 6) managing medications is associated with emotional responses; and 7) possible safety issues exist. CONCLUSIONS These responsibilities represent a unique hardship and merit support and research from the medical, healthcare, legislative, and public health communities, among others.
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Hawken T, Turner-Cobb J, Barnett J. Coping and adjustment in caregivers: A systematic review. Health Psychol Open 2018; 5:2055102918810659. [PMID: 30450216 PMCID: PMC6236498 DOI: 10.1177/2055102918810659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This systematic review assessed coping and adjustment in caregivers of all ages to provide a synthesis of existing literature in the context of methodological approaches and underlying theory. Four databases were searched. Reference lists, citations and experts were consulted. In total, 27 studies (13 quantitative and 14 qualitative) were included. Coping factors associated with adjustment (problem- versus emotion-focussed coping and cognitive strategies) and psychosocial factors associated with physiological adjustment (trait anxiety, coping style and social support) were identified. Results raised methodological issues. Future research requires physiological adjustment measures and longitudinal assessment of the long-term impact of childhood caregiving. Findings inform future caregiver research and interventions.
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Boumans NPG, Dorant E. A cross-sectional study on experiences of young adult carers compared to young adult noncarers: parentification, coping and resilience. Scand J Caring Sci 2018; 32:1409-1417. [DOI: 10.1111/scs.12586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisabeth Dorant
- Department of Social Medicine; Maastricht University; Maastricht The Netherlands
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