Psychosocial care of people with experience of children's homes in the GDR Survey of professionals on their treatment experiences and knowledge needs

Background: People who experienced neglect, abuse and maltreatment in children's homes and reformatories in the German Democratic Republic (GDR 1949-1989) often still suffer from the psychosocial consequences of these experiences years and decades later. They are therefore often in need of psychosocial support but also report difficulties in accessing the help system and communication problems with the professionals treating them.Objective: It was investigated whether psychosocial professionals describe challenges in the treatment/counselling of people with experiences of children's homes in the GDR and whether they perceive barriers to access to the help system for those affected. Furthermore, they were asked which psychosocial support services they thought should be available for those affected and whether there was a need for further training on the topic.Methods: Using a mixed methods approach in an online study, 441 participants working in psychosocial services were asked about their experiences in working with people with a past of institutional upbringing in children's homes in the GDR.Results and conclusion: Negative consequences caused by growing up in the GDR youth welfare system, deep-rooted mistrust, fear of stigmatization and subjective feelings of shame and guilt on the part of those affected confront the professionals with particular challenges in the treatment/counselling of people with experiences of children's homes in the GDR. At the same time, they confront the affected persons with barriers to accessing psychosocial care.