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Running groups for parents with schizophrenic adolescents: initial experiences and plans for the future
1Cluain Mhuire Family Centre, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Republic of Ireland.
Journal of Adolescence
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Parents of adolescents with schizophrenia benefited from support groups, improving their ability to manage their child at home. While knowledge gains were minimal, the supportive aspect was highly valued.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Adolescent Mental Health
- Family Support
Background:
- Adolescent schizophrenia presents unique challenges for families.
- Parental support and education are crucial for managing the disorder.
- Limited research exists on the impact of group interventions for these families.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a six-session educational and support group for parents of adolescents with schizophrenia.
- To assess changes in parental knowledge and home management skills.
- To explore the perceived benefits of group participation.
Main Methods:
- Conducted six-session educational and support groups for 32 parents of adolescents diagnosed with schizophrenia.
- Assessed parental knowledge and home management abilities before and after the group intervention.
- Collected qualitative feedback on the group experience.
Main Results:
- No significant increase in knowledge about schizophrenia was observed, likely due to high baseline scores.
- Parents demonstrated improved ability to handle their adolescent child at home.
- All participants reported significant benefits from the supportive nature of the group.
Conclusions:
- Parental support groups can enhance home management skills for families of adolescents with schizophrenia.
- The supportive element of group interventions is a key factor for parental well-being.
- Further development of such groups is warranted to aid families in coping with adolescent schizophrenia.