Philippine E-Journals

THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF MOTHERS IN CARING FOR THEIR DEAF AND MUTE CHILD

Ma. Abigail Nahial | Mely Rose Molina | Nina Mariz Natividad | Dan Eric Sting Nicdao | Angel Marie O’ Brien

Discipline: Nursing

 

Abstract:

The study aimed to explore the different reactions of mothers to different scenarios they experienced in caring for their deaf and mute child; identify the coping mechanisms they used; describe their care giving roles and perceptions; and determine the problems they encountered in having a deaf and mute child. The study used descriptive method to identify and describe the experiences in caring for their child. Data were collected through an in-depth interview using an interview guide. Findings revealed that most of the initial reactions of the respondents are sadness and pity for their child’s conditions; they also have a hard time accepting it. In terms of the coping mechanisms they used, the mothers just accept the truth and believe that God has reasons why they were given a child with disability. They also got support from the family that also helped them in coping up. In terms of their care giving roles and perceptions, most of them give time and attention to their child. Caring a child with such disability is very emotional but they must always show love and concern to them. Finally, in terms of the problems, communication and discrimination their child is experiencing from others are encountered by most of them.