Citation

Boucher S, Paré N, Perry JC, Sigal JJ, Ouimet MC. Sante Ment. Que. 2008; 33(2): 271-291.

Vernacular Title

Repercussions d'une enfance vecue en institution : le cas des Enfants de

Affiliation

Département de sexologie, Université du Québec à Montréal.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Communaute et Sante Mentale)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

19370267

Abstract

Whereas the immediate consequences of institutionalized placements on children have been documented, no study has investigated adults who were raised in orphanages or institutions. In Quebec, les enfants de Duplessis offer a unique testimony of the long term consequences of an institutionalized childhood. Stories collected from 40 men and 41 women who grew up in institution in Duplessis'era indicate a high number of abuse and aversive experiences, including physical, psychological and sexual aggressions. In addition, the environment was poor in stimulation and opportunities to develop positive attachment relationships with adults. When matched and compared to adults from the Santé-Québec survey, les enfants de Duplessis report a higher number of health problems associated with stress and more psychological distress. Moreover, our results indicate that those who had fewer strengths and aptitudes in childhood are the most affected by unfavourable experiences.

Language: fr