Life experiences of a mother with a child with Down syndrome: a case study


Published: Mar 24, 2021
Keywords:
Case study Child with Down syndrome Experiences Mother
Maria Markodimitraki
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9769-5923
Maria Kypriotaki
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4705-4044
Abstract
Parents of children with Down syndrome face many challenges and have various needs related to their children’s difficulties. The purpose of this qualitative study is to detect the experiences of a mother of a female child with Down syndrome. More specifically, through semi-structured interviews, the study aims to explore the feelings of the mother, her involvement in the child’s life, as well as her relationships with the familial and social context. The results showed that the mother is significantly involved in her child’s life and faces various difficulties (e.g. acceptance of the child and her intensive care) on a daily basis, which she copes with supported by the intra-family network. By understanding the experiences of the specific mother, as the latter are examined in the present qualitative study, important issues emerge, related to diagnosis and early intervention, school integration of a child with Down syndrome, the role of family members in her education and therapy, as well as concerns regarding her future.
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Author Biographies
Maria Markodimitraki, University of Crete

Department of Preschool Education

Maria Kypriotaki, University of Crete

Department of Preschool Education

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