Developmental conditions and subjective experiences of children with a schizophrenic parent -: Qualitative and quantitative results from the Mannheim study on children at risk

Objective: 3 5 children 12 - 42 years of age of patients with schizophrenia (ABC-Cohort-12-year-follow-up) were interviewed for studying objective and subjective effects of growing up with a schizophrenic parent. Material and method: Social development and childhood experiences were assessed and quantitatively and qualitatively evaluated. Results: The majority of probands had to take on early responsibilities in their family. Experienced deficits in parental care and problems with poor communication within the family were also mentioned. Compared with controls they showed only light disadvantages in the level of education and vocational training. Conclusion: Even if early independence could be a positive ressource for children with a schizophrenic parent the restrictions in the child's life and development should not be overlooked. information on the illness and support in dealing with stressful situations are frequently needed.