Hidden Heroes - Children of parents with severe mental illness in school
| Authors | |
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| Year of publication | 2022 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Description | Problem Statement: The consequences of hospitalization of parent with mental illness may negatively affect school performance in wide range of areas. However, school psychologists pay only minor attention towards this phenomenon. Research Questions: We have conducted a research study mapping the prevalence of parenthood among hospitalized patients with SMI and put it into context with the impact of this phenomenon on school achievement. Study Purpose: The purpose of our study was to identify the number of students who may be at risk of school failure, and to create recommendations for school psychologists based on previously published studies focused on documentation of negative impacts of this phenomenon on school performance. Research Methods: In the first phase we have conducted analysis of medical records of patients hospitalized for SMI between 2017-2020. Afterwards we have conducted a research review of studies on the topic of school functioning in students with parents with mental disorders. Findings: Results show that a significant proportion of SMI patients are parents of children studying elementary school. Together with findings from previous studies we can say that a significant amount of children is at risk of mental health difficulties and adaptation problems that may significantly affect school performance due to problems connected with parent´s SMI. Conclusions: The study has shown that these children are not a marginal population and they are in need of professional support. The aim of this publication is not only to raise awareness and understanding of the issue, but also to suggest practical recommendations based on the current state of professional knowledge. |
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