BLESSING OR A CHALLENGE RAISING A DOWN SYNDROME CHILD; A NARRATIVE INQUIRY
No Thumbnail Available
Date
0023-06-18
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
KINNAIRD COLLEGE PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Abstract
Families raising children with Down syndrome go through many unique and
complicated challenges at every level of the child’s life, including social, physical,
emotional and behavioural domains. However, research also highlights some
positive facets of Down syndrome like increased empathy and stable family
relationships. The current research aimed to address and explore all the aspects
accompanying Down syndrome including physical, social, psychological and
spiritual. It also aims to identify factors that contribute to post traumatic growth.
The qualitative research design and narrative inquiry was used to explore these
areas. Snow-ball sampling was used to recruit three mothers of Down syndrome
children. The sample included two twelve year old boys and one twelve year old
girl respectively. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with
mothers (two interviews were taken in person while one was taken online) and
observations sessions were scheduled in the child’s natural environment. The data
was transcribed and analysed through thematic narrative analysis. Seven major
themes were extracted from the narratives; Receiving and dealing with the
diagnosis, lifestyle and well-being, challenges of raising a Down syndrome child,
child attachment and relationship with family members, child development and
skills, factors leading to Post-traumatic growth and unique relation of the child
with God. The research concluded that where the positive aspects of raising a
Down syndrome child outnumber the negative aspects in theory, in practical life,
this syndrome is definitely a very intense challenge for parents, and when
compared to other severe disorders and syndromes, it comes along with a bunch
of sparkles. Findings can help in reducing societal stigma, help health care
providers design interventions and enhance well-being and support for individuals
with Down syndrome and their family members. It is recommended to further
explore the Down syndrome child’s connectedness