Split in Two: Experiences of the Children of Schizophrenic Mothers

Abstract

The children and families of 28 schizophrenic women were interviewed to assess the amount of burden they experienced in the form of disruptions and problems as a consequence of the schizophrenia. Different styles of coping emerged within the family patterns that related to behaviours associated with schizophrenia, the role of the fathers, the stages of development of the children, and the adverse effects on the family and the children.