The Effects Of Parental Chronic Mental And Physical Illness On Psychological Distress, Perceived Social Support, And Resilience: A Comparison Of Maternal And Paternal Differences

Abstract

This research delves into the repercussions of parental chronic mental and physical illness on adolescent psychological distress, perceived social support, and resilience. Despite the pivotal role of these factors in shaping adolescent development, there exists a gap in understanding their interplay within these variables. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the impact of parental chronic illness on adolescents' psychological distress, perceived social support, and resilience. The primary objective is to investigate the influence of parental chronic illness on adolescent psychological distress and resilience, while emphasizing. Additionally, the study seeks to examine the correlation between adolescent psychological distress and both perceived social support and resilience. Furthermore, it endeavors to compare the experiences of adolescents with parents facing chronic mental illness (receiving clinical treatment) versus those with chronic physical illnesses (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer). Furthermore, study also examen the effect of maternal and paternal psychological and Physical illness on adolescence. Employing a purposive sampling technique, with quantitative measures, inclusive criteria encompass adolescents aged 12 to 18 who have been exposed to their parent's chronic illness for at least one year. Data collection involves administering four validated questionnaires: the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and a demographic sheet. Data collection begins with obtaining ethical approval and recruiting participants from various schools in Faisalabad (District). Data were collected from 140 individuals in two groups, one comprising adolescents with parents suffering from chronic mental illness (n=70) and the other with parents facing chronic physical illnesses (n=70). The results of the comparison show that the level of perceived social support and resilience is higher among those whose parents have physical illnesses. Moreover, psychological distress is higher among children of parents with mental illnesses. Limitations include data collection from a specific geographic area and the restriction of the age range to adolescents aged 12 to 18. Recommendations for further research are provided to expand upon the findings and explore additional avenues for investigation.