Parents' experiences of caring for sons and daughters with schizophrenia: a qualitative analysis of coping

Abstract

This study used a coping framework (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984) to explore experiences of caring for a son or daughter with schizophrenia. Eight parents of people with schizophrenia were interviewed about their experiences and the transcripts of these interviews were subjected to thematic content analysis. The analysis indicated that negative symptoms represented the most burdensome stressor for parents and that coping strategies shifted from problem-focused to more emotionfocused forms (such as acceptance). In relation to the resources which were available to parents, the results indicated that support from social networks and mental health services was generally perceived to have been lacking. However, both informational and emotional support were available from self-help groups for relatives/carers. The implications of this study for therapeutic practice are discussed.