Exploratory Research With Young Adult Children of Parents With Disabilities

Few studies have investigated the experiences of adult children of parents with disabilities. This study explores social factors related to child outcomes with a focus on the roles of stigma and resources/ support. Our purpose was to examine the amount of variance in self-esteem accounted for by (a) perceived stigma regarding parental disability, (b) family resources and support, and (c) socialization with other families with disabilities. The archival data included 908 applicants for a scholarship, ages 17-21, who were offspring of parents with diverse disabilities. Perceived stigma regarding parental disability and socialization with families with disabilities were significant predictors of self-esteem. Perceived stigma regarding parental disability was negatively correlated to family resources and support, socialization with families with disabilities, and self-esteem. Perceived stigma regarding parental disability was the strongest significant predictor of self-esteem, demonstrating the negative impact of stigma on offspring. Socialization with families with disabilities and family resources and support are important social factors associated with positive outcomes among adult children of parents with disabilities. Findings have the potential to guide appropriate clinical interventions and policies for families with parental disabilities.