Mental disorder in childhood: family structure and their social relations

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the social network and social support from the perspective of the family of a child with mental disorder.

Methods:

This is a descriptive, exploratory qualitative study with 14 families of children with mental disorders treated at CAPS-i Maringá - PR. Data collection took place from January to April 2013, through semi-structured interviews and construction of genograms and Eco maps of families.

Results:

Data were analyzed using content thematic analysis, creating two categories: "Network and social support: assisting the family living with a child with mental disorder" and "Family Structure: outlining linkages".

Conclusion:

The support network and social support are necessary to cope with the difficulties arising from mental illness, and it is the nurses' responsibility to know these sources of support and the types of bonds to provide family-centered care.

Mental Health; Health of the child; Family; Social Support