Coping with disability : a parent's perspective

Abstract

The confirmation of their child's disability creates a crisis situation for most parents. They express their reactions to this traumatic situation by behavioural responses. Shock is the first reaction , followed by panic, combined with disbelief or denial, that the event is happening. Anxiety is also reflected and may diminish their functioning. The truth will also in many cases have a major effect on the family's' lifestyle and future plans. They may also be ignorant of what kind of help and services are available. They may encounter difficulties in making adjustments to the new circumstances. The family in this kind of situation will be in desperate need of informed help to make the 'right' decisions for themselves and their children. This study has chosen to focus on the families of disabled children, to identify their needs, to evaluate the effects of disability upon the family and to examine service provision together with the social work role. The case studies offer a realistic overview of what it means to have a disabled child. These case studies are presented to demonstrate the issues discussed in the literature review. This study was done in order to promote an awareness of life as experienced by these families, and to foster a better understanding and acceptance within the wider community.