Children from broken home at greater risk of mental illness

CHILDREN brought up by single parents and in stepfamilies are three times more likely to suffer from mental health problems, a study has found.

Research based on 10,448 11-year-olds in the UK found that 6.6 per cent of those living with both biological parents suffered severe mental illness compared to 15 per cent with single parents and 18.1 per cent in step-families.

Experts said the findings added to “a mountain of evidence” about the damage caused by family breakdown, with children left stressed or falling into poverty, which could increase their risk of psychiatric distress.

The study by University College London showed that those with single parents and in step-families were particularly likely to suffer from behaviour and hyperactivity problems.

Children brought up in step-families were 19.5 per cent more likely to have tantrums and get into fights, compared with 7.1 per cent with both biological parents and 17.4 per cent living with a lone parent.

Higher levels of mental health problems were found among boys. White boys were most likely to suffer hyperactivity and conduct problems, while mixed race girls were the most likely to suffer from any type of severe mental health problem.

Andy Bell, chief executive of the Centre for Mental Health, said: “It is not known from the information available to us why children living with both parents are less likely to have mental health problems at age 11, but there are likely to be a range of reasons.

“We know that incomes are an important factor and children from the poorest families are four times as likely to have mental health problems as those from the wealthiest households.

“Stress and distress among parents may also be an important factor.”

Norman Wells, from the Family Education Trust, said: “This study adds to a mountain of evidence that family stability matters and family breakdown can have a damaging effect on the mental health of children.

“The fact that a growing number of children lack the advantages of being raised by both their biological parents in a stable family unit is not something we can afford to be complacent about.”

Calling on the Government to do more to promote and encourage marriage, Mr Wells said the rise in births outside marriage in recent years was having a damaging impact on children.

“In an age that places great emphasis on personal fulfilment at all costs, this study is a salutary reminder that the personal choices we make can have a lasting impact on others and especially on our children,” he said.

Carey Oppenheim, chief executive of the Early Intervention Foundation, said families needed help earlier if children were struggling.

“Every child deserves the best opportunity to realise their full potential and we know that those with welldeveloped social and emotional skills have a better chance of being happy and healthy adults.”