Highlights children’s experiences as next of kin
A new review of research offers insight into how children and young people aged 0 to 25 experience everyday life when a parent is mentally ill, has a substance use disorder, is seriously ill or injured.
Researchers and participants in BarnsBeste’s research network have collected and analysed data from 23 studies conducted between 2010 and 2022. All the texts offer unique insight into the perspectives and experiences of children and young people in the role of next of kin.
“We wanted to take a closer look at what research based on Norwegian data told us about the everyday lives of children and young people dealing with a parent’s illness or substance use disorder. It was important to us to hear their voices directly and systematically gather this knowledge,” says Vibecke Ulvær Vallesverd, Deputy Director and Professional Adviser at the National Competence Network for Children as Next of Kin, BarnsBeste.
The review of research reveals that children’s and young people’s everyday lives are characterised by emotional ambivalence as they navigate supportive and challenging environments. Despite their circumstances, research shows that children and young people are active agents who seek to find meaning and handle the challenges of everyday life on their own.
“It is clear that children and young people in the role of next of kin face a range of challenges, including a lack of information, financial worries and a sense of loneliness within the family,” says Vallesverd.
The study also indicates that children and young people often take on responsibility for helping out financially at home, and worry about inheriting their parent’s illness and about their parent’s life. However, research shows that support from a stable, trusted adult, as well as maintaining friendships and leisure activities, can be crucial to their wellbeing and ability to cope.
This research underscores the need to integrate knowledge about the needs of children and young people into policy, practice and society. By recognising and addressing the challenges they face, we can help ensure their wellbeing and future health.
“We need to take action, and as a society we must take responsibility for supporting children and young people in the role of next of kin. This is not just about recognising their efforts, but also about offering targeted support and help to them and their family to prevent future health problems,” says Vallesverd.
Read the full article inScandinavian Journal of Public Health