The Impact of Parental Chronic Illness on College Students
Kimberly Moreira
Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: BA.PSY/FORENSICPSY
Faculty Research Mentor: Turner, Franklin
Abstract:
This study investigates the impact of parental chronic illness on college-aged caregivers. Whilecaregivers are a critical national healthcare resource, limited attention has been given to youngadults who assume caregiving roles for their parents. Previous research has linked carerecipients’ behavioral problems, cognitive impairment, functional disabilities, and duration ofcare to caregiver stress and diminished well-being.Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combined survey data with qualitative interviews.The survey compared stress levels and related factors between college students with achronically ill parent and those without. Additionally, a focus group of six to ten participantsexplored the challenges faced by student caregivers and identified potential protective factorsassociated with resilience. Focus group participants completed validated self-report measures ofcaregiver stress and psychological well-being.Findings highlight the unique stressors experienced by college-aged caregivers and underscorethe limited availability of validated measures that capture their specific experiences. Theseresults emphasize the need for targeted resources and institutional support for students balancingacademic demands with caregiving responsibilities. Future research should further examinewhich interventions most effectively support this population.Keywords: Caregiver Stress, College-Aged Caregivers, Parental Chronic Illness, PsychologicalWell-Being, Resilience, Young Adult Caregivers