PARENTAL PHYSICAL ILLNESS AND CHILD FUNCTIONING

Although physical illness among adults is prevalent, few studies exist which examine the relationship between parental illness and child fun ctioning. We reviewed the existing studies and tentatively conclude th at an association does exist. We also delineated variables that have b een identified as qualifiers of this relationship, outlined dimensions of physical illness which may be important in the relationship, and d iscussed possible mechanisms for the association between physical illn ess and child functioning. The need for more research and the consider ation of parental physical illness within a broader family context is emphasized.