Predictors and barriers to engagement in caring for children with a mental health diagnosis: A qualitative study of caregivers perception of power

Abstract Background Evidence‐based treatments used in managing behaviors of children require caregiver engagement. However, there is a gap in understanding a caregiver's level of comprehension of how they can advocate for their children's mental health needs and how to help their children in the home once outpatient treatment is initiated. Methods This was a qualitative study using interviews with semi‐structured research questions. Recruitment was through convenience sampling at a private practice mental health agency. Nine participants were interviewed. A thematic analysis was completed posttranscription and coding. Results Four themes emerged that captured the lived experience of the caregivers as they sought to facilitate care for the child/adolescent: Feeling lost (powerless navigating the mental health care system); Feeling a loss of control (Lack of Return Communication and Lack of Available Providers); Feeling frustrated (insurance and/or cost barriers); and Feeling powerless to help (their child at home and not included in treatment). Relevance This study addresses the gaps in the current health care system. Through examining the caregiver's sense of power in their role in mental health care for their children, interventions may be developed to encourage more active involvement in treatment outcomes and more involvement in interventions for the home setting. Moreover, this study highlights the importance of giving insight to providers on how to help families navigate mental health care, communicate more, and include the patient and caregiver in the development of comprehensive treatment plans.