LIVED EXPERIENCES OF MOTHERS OF CHILDREN WITH DOWN'S SYNDROME IN SELECTED SCHOOLS AT MANGALORE

Abstract This qualitative study explored the mother's experiences of parenting a child with Down's syndrome. The research approach used in this study was Phenomenology. Interviews were conducted with seven mothers who had a child with Down syndrome. The study was conducted at selected special schools at Mangalore. From the Analysis of the data six major themes were emerged. Non acceptance – Birth of an abnormal child, Lifestyle changes, High bonding between family members, Worried about the unpredictable future of the child, Societal and Community acceptance and Positiveness towards life. These findings show that birth of a child with Down syndrome produces tremendous physical and psychological effect in parents. So parents need adequate support from nurses right from the very birth of a disabled child. Therefore this study is important for nurses working with families having children with Down syndrome. They need to realize and aware of the problems faced by the families and should advocate necessary support.