Parental mental health and its social impact on the family: A socio-psychological comparison - an analytical study

Abstract

This analytical study examines the relationship between parental mental health and its social impact on the family from a comparative socio-psychological perspective, based on the premise that family stability and unity are closely linked to parental mental health. The study aims to analyze the effect of mental disorders in one or both parents on family cohesion, marital relationships, and the psychological and social development of children, while also exploring the role of social factors such as support and stigma in explaining this relationship. The study employed a descriptive, analytical, and comparative approach, and was conducted on a sample of 150 families, divided into three groups: families with a father suffering from a mental disorder, families with a mother suffering from a mental disorder, and families free of disorders. Quantitative and qualitative instruments were used, including the General Mental Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), the Family Cohesion Scale, the Children's Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and semi-structured family interviews.The results showed a strong inverse relationship between deteriorating parental mental health and the level of family cohesion (r = -0.61), and a positive relationship between poor parental mental health and emotional and behavioral problems in children (r = +0.54). The impact of mental disorders was also found to be more severe when the mother was the one affected, resulting in a significant decrease in family cohesion and an increase in anxiety and negative behaviors among children. Qualitative findings confirmed that the stigma of mental illness, weak social support, and blurred roles within the family are among the most important mediating factors that increase family stress and isolation.The study concluded that parental mental health is a pivotal factor in family stability and emotional and social cohesion, and that addressing it should not be limited to the individual affected, but should encompass the family as a whole.

 The study recommends comprehensive psychosocial support programs and awareness campaigns to reduce social stigma and enhance family resilience in the face of psychological crises.