How is parental identity affected when your child has suicidal thoughts?

This study explores how parents reconstruct their parental identity after recognizing their child’s risk of suicide. This study reveals a complex journey through crisis, powerlessness, and hope – and shows how crucial social support and interaction are for regaining a sense of stability.
 

The study is based on qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 21 Danish parents of suicidal children, and uses an exploratory approach. Parents described their role as a “moral journey” in three phases:
1. Disrupted parental role: Begins when parents realize that their child might take their own life. They still believe they can help and protect the child.
2. Powerlessness: Parents loose faith in their ability to make a difference.
3. Restored agency: Some regain confidence in themselves through support and interaction with others.

The study concludes that parents’ identities are fundamentally shaken by their child’s suicidal behavior, but that social relationships and recognition can play a crucial role in restoring a sense of parental competence. The findings can contribute to better support and understanding within both the healthcare system and the networks surrounding families in crisis.