Young people's experiences of growing up in a family affected by Huntington's disease

K Forrest-Keenan, Z Miedzybrodzka, E van Teijlingen, L McKee, S A Simpson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

62 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Previous research and clinical experience suggest that Huntington's disease (HD) can considerably affect family life, particularly for young people (YP) at risk. The goal of this study was to describe the experiences of YP from families affected by HD. YP were identified through the regional genetics clinic and the Scottish Huntington's Association. In-depth interviews were used to explore YP's experiences of finding out about HD in the family; perceptions of their own risk; caring activities; protective or risk factors; and the impact of HD on relationships with siblings, parents, extended family members, and the wider community. Thirty-three YP between the ages of 9 and 28 years were interviewed. A qualitative thematic analysis was undertaken. The analysis revealed four main themes: YP as carers, the worried well, those who cope, and those at risk/in need. These themes highlight the varied experience of growing up in a family affected by HD. Whilst some YP successfully coped, others experienced considerable problems and were at risk of physical and/or emotional harm. In understanding why some cope better than others, our findings suggest protective and risk factors within these themes. In particular, participants who grew up knowing about HD from an early age seemed to cope better.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)120-129
Number of pages10
JournalClinical Genetics
Volume71
Issue number2
Early online date23 Jan 2007
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2007

Keywords

  • adaptation, psychological
  • adolescent
  • adult
  • caregivers
  • child
  • family
  • female
  • humans
  • Huntington Disease
  • male
  • risk factors
  • Scotland
  • social support
  • at risk
  • genetic services
  • neurodegenerative disease
  • qualitative study
  • adult-onset conditions
  • chorea
  • stress
  • risk
  • life
  • care
  • paradigm
  • disorder

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