The Experiences of Parents Providing Support to Adult Children with Schizophrenia

•The present study is an explorative qualitative study. •Offers a holistic view of the caregiving experience in the New Zealand context by documenting key experiences, both positive and negative;

•The inclusion criteria was that participants were primary caregivers for their sons or daughters with schizophrenia who were not managing their conditions independently. •The son/daughter could live with the caregiver, or in the community with the support of the caregiver.

•Semi-structured interviews were conducted ; •All interviews began with an introduction and overview of the project; •,,Can you tell me about your experience of caring your son?” •A range of follow-up questions were asked; •Topics included coping strategies, supports accessed or needed, changes in the role over time, and positive experiences; •The interviews lasted between 60 and 90 min, were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim.