The impact of caring on young carer's lives. An international literature review (1990-2006)

Children growing up with chronically ill parents and those who are involved into the care of their parents are at risk to experience adverse effects on their whole development. This literature study is part of a research project that intends to work out a basis for specific support for young carers and their families in Germany. Questions concerning the impact on young carers, and also experiences of growing up with a chronically ill parent where addressed to the last 15 years' relevant literature. Children experience positive as well as negative effects, but it is difficult to distinguish between caring responsibilities and the impact of growing up with a chronically ill parent. Positive effects are a good sense of self-esteem, maturity, identity, a close relation to the parents, as well as feeling well prepared for further life. Negative effects become apparent for the child's physical, psychosocial and educational development. Not every young carer experiences negative effects, and not every child of a chronically ill parent will necessarily experience disadvantage. Nevertheless, research results refer to the need for action in order to prevent negative consequences for the child's future life. Projects of support need to integrate the whole family and besides supporting the children, the parents need to be stabilised as well.