Philippine E-Journals

The Psychological Wellness of Children with Chronically Ill Parent

Astrud Camille Marbella | Janine Hernandez | Henedine Mae Mendoza

Discipline: Psychology

 

Abstract:

The study aimed to explore the psychological wellness of children with chronically ill parent. It also identified specific mechanism on how parental illness affect families specifically adolescents. Qualitative research design was used. There were six selected adolescents used as respondents in the study and they were chosen through referral. It employed application of profile form and semi-structured interview guide to determine psychological wellness of the respondent as a child of a chronically ill parent. The study viewed psychological wellness as a holistic wellness which encompasses the physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual condition revealed by the children whose parents are chronically ill.

 

Results showed that some children with chronically ill parent react to difficulties and adversities in an optimistic manner, they handle emotions and control or cope with personal feelings, and they maintain emotional stability. They participate in healthy social life and capable of solving problems. Social support such as interaction between factors in the respondents’ immediate family, community environment, and the spiritual setting influence self-management that aids psychological wellness. On the other hand, some children consider themselves emotionally unstable due to the enduring consequences of their parent’s illness. The study recommended that a psychological wellness tool may be developed to assess the child’s psychological wellness.