Challenges Facing Mothers of Mentally Disabled Child: A Qualitative Study of the Mothers' Experiences

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Lecturer, Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University

2 Lecturer,Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University

Abstract

Background: The childhood period can be a challenging time for all parents; however, parents of children with disabilities may experience specific sources of burden. Consequently, they have been viewed as being at risk for a variety of family life problems and challenges. Aim of the study: Identify the challenges facing mothers of mentally disabled child. Subjects& Methods: Research design: A descriptive Phenomenological study design (multi-method component triangulated design) . Setting: The study was carried out in 5 nongovernmental organizations providing health care and rehabilitative services for mentally disabled children in Alexandria. Subjects: 60 mothers having mentally disabled children were included in the study. Tools of data collection: Two tools were used for data collection. The first tool was personal and socio-demographic structured interview questionnaire for the mothers of mentally disabled child to assess personal and socio-demographic data about the participants and their children . The second tool was focus group discussions guide for the mothers of mentally disabled child that used to identify challenges experienced by the mothers. Results: Findings of the present study revealed that 23.3% of the mothers have more than one mentally disabled child. 60% of them were unable to pay for health services. The emerged raw qualitative data were clustered intothree categorical schemes: Firstly, challenges facing mothers of mentally disabled children whether child related, family related or community related challenges. Secondly, the adaptation of the mothers' with these challenges and Thirdly, Maternal Feelings Regarding the Future. Conclusion: The study concluded that mothers of mentally disabled children experience various psychological and emotional, social, economic and physical challenges. Recommendations: Establishing a special unit for mentally disabled children within the family health centers and pediatric hospitals.Use mobile equipped units to provide appropriate free health care services for disabled children in remote areas provided by highly qualified team

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