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This research examined the psychological and social functioning of young adults who care for their severely mentally ill mothers. In doing so, the following variables were examined: coping style; perceived stress; quality of life; resilience; race; SES; support group participation; and household residence. This study found that young adult caregivers experience incredibly high levels of perceived stress and a reduction in their quality of life. These caregivers report high usage of online support groups, a new and unique finding. Such services seem to be of great comfort to this group. These results indicate that more family-centered support services should be created to address the unique needs of family caregivers. Young adult caregivers in particular would benefit from more online support services.

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Dr. Deloney has a strong background in the social sciences with degrees in social work, psychology, and addictions. She has a passion for issues of social justice, including race/ethnicity, mental and physical illness, and poverty. Dr. Deloney plans to dedicate her life to reducing health disparities and increasing social justice.

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