LAUSR

OBJECTIVE Although caregiver burden is well documented in the literature on caregivers of adults with psychosis, recent studies also suggest elevated levels of caregiver burden among caregivers of youths with psychotic spectrum disorders and those of youths at clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR-P); however, no review has been conducted to assess the literature in this area. The authors aimed to map the range, extent, and nature of the available evidence on caregiver burden among caregivers of youths with psychotic disorders or youths classified as at CHR-P. METHODS A scoping review of six databases was conducted. Studies were included if they provided data or commentary on caregiver burden among individuals caring for youths with psychotic disorders or youths at CHR-P. Two reviewers were involved in the screening and data extraction process, in consultation with a third reviewer. RESULTS From 6,651 abstracts and titles screened, 280 full-text articles were reviewed, and 11 were included in the analysis. Overall, the articles supported the experience of significant burden among caregivers of youths with psychotic disorders or youths at CHR-P and highlighted the emotional costs of caring. Three prominent themes emerged: characteristics of caregiver burden (types of burden, youth and caregiver characteristics, and caregiver group comparisons), possible predictors of caregiver burden (youth vs. caregiver factors), and potential opportunities for intervention. CONCLUSIONS Caregivers of youths at CHR-P or youths diagnosed as having psychotic disorders are a vulnerable population and need services to support them throughout the caregiving trajectory.