Childhood experiences pursue adulthood for better and worse: a qualitative study of adults' experiences after growing up with a severely mentally ill parent in a small-scale society

Abstract

Background Growing up with a severely mentally ill parent can impact on subsequent adult life, and it can be extra challenging in a society with a small population, known as a small-scale society. Life in a small-scale society is characterised by multiple close relationships, lack of anonymity and a conservative attitude towards normal behaviour. Aims To look at the impact of growing up with a mentally ill parent on adult life in a small-scale society. Methods Data from semistructured interviews with 11 adult children of severely mentally ill parents were reanalysed and subjected to secondary analysis. Results The additional analysis resulted in four central themes: ‘becoming open and courageous’, ‘seeking and giving help’, ‘feeling uncertain and different’ and ‘being resilient and sensitive’. These were conflated into an overarching theme: ‘childhood experiences track into adulthood for better and worse’. The themes elucidate a diverse big picture and encompass positive and challenging features of adult life in a small-scale society. Conclusions The study ends with recommendations for the early establishment of collaboration and family-focused interventions with mentally ill parents and their children.