• Korean Journal of Family Social Work
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• no.57
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• pp.99-124
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• 2017

The primary objective of this study is to examine differences between the persons with recent onset and chronic mental illness in their family function; and analyze factors influence on the family function. The independent variables are divided into four sets: socio-economic, clinical, familial, and social characteristics. The subjects of this study are the 628 with mental disorders, and the sample was selected in Pusan and Gyeong-nam area. The findings of this study can be summarized as followed: The family with chronic mental illness showed higher family function in comparison with recent onset. Result of hierarchical multiple regression analysis show that age of onset, difference between ideal and reality in family function variable only influenced family function for the recent onset group, and activities of daily living, difference between ideal and reality in family function, caregiver's health, community support variables influenced family function for the chronic group. The results suggest a need for using different treatment approaches for recent onset versus chronic mentally disabled families. Implications for mental health social work practice for family with disabled are suggested.