Abstract
The purpose of this research project is to explore the prevalence of codependency among parents with children that suffer from mental health issues. Children with mental health conditions can be uniquely challenged by the behavioral tendencies of their caregivers. There is a lack of current literature on the correlations between parental codependency and children suffering from mental health conditions. This research project consists of the background of the problem, and investigation of the theoretical framework, a review of the relevant research, an analysis of the data, research findings, and implications for future research. To explore whether there was a significantly high level of codependence among parents of children referred for outpatient mental health treatment, a sample of (N= 30) parents of children referred to the Sutter Counseling Center in Sacramento, CA, was given the Spann-Fischer Codependency Inventory to assess for high levels codependency. Results showed higher mean levels of codependency among the sampled population of parents. Specific inventory responses also reveal that codependency among the parents is a way of viewing one’s self which is supported by relevant literature. The research provides future caregivers and researchers a way of looking at codependency and a foundation for future studies.