An exploration of the experiences of parents with an adolescent child diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD): a family resilience perspective
| dc.contributor.author | Murray, Jordynne | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2025-10-03T09:53:09Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2025-10-03T09:53:09Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025 | |
| dc.description.abstract | Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental health disorders globally, with high prevalence between early- and mid-adolescence. A diagnosis during this phase can have a profound effect on the family system with which the adolescent belongs. Using Walsh’s Family Resilience Framework (FRF), this study explored the subjective experiences of parents of adolescents who have/have had a formal diagnosis of MDD, and identified potential risk and resilience factors that these families may possess. The research study employed an exploratory research design, using a reflexive thematic analysis model and a qualitative data management software, Atlas.ti. The study recruited participants by means of purposive and snowball sampling methods, specifically via an advertisement posted on social media platforms and groups geared towards parenting. A total of five parents participated in the study. Data was collected by means of individual, semi-structured interviews. Interviews were conducted in-person at a place private and convenient for participants. Prior to participating, participants were provided with an information sheet and consent form detailing their right to withdrawal, confidentiality, and anonymity as well as information pertaining to the nature, potential risks and benefits of participation. The analysis proved consistent with the interconnected and interactive dimensions outlined in Walsh’s (2012, 2016b) FRF. Shared, adaptive beliefs regarding MDD and its management were identified as a prominent protective factor, along with marital and social support, flexible organisational patterns, as well as clear communication as it pertains to boundaries and expectations regarding suicidality. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://hdl.handle.net/10566/21012 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | University of the Western Cape | |
| dc.subject | Major depressive disorder | |
| dc.subject | Adolescence | |
| dc.subject | Family resilience | |
| dc.subject | Walsh’s family resilience Framework | |
| dc.title | An exploration of the experiences of parents with an adolescent child diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD): a family resilience perspective | |
| dc.type | Thesis |