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Disability and Family
The birth of a child with a disability often affects the relationship between parents and the entire functionality of the family. When families learn that their child has a disability, they experience intense surprise and shock, followed by a period of denial that the disease and risky situation will improve and disappear over time. During this period, healthcare personnel must answer the family's questions, even if it is difficult, and inform them as much as they can. After this period, the period regarding the acceptance of the disease begins. During this period, feelings of anger and guilt come to the fore in the family. They may feel angry at the medical staff, the doctor, and especially mothers themselves. In fact, during this period, it is beneficial to talk about these feelings openly and share thoughts about those who are held responsible. In other words, it is a relief for both parties to learn each other's thoughts openly.
Some comments made by spouses, friends and relatives during this period may push the mother, who already has a tendency to blame herself, to think even more. Sometimes a mother may find herself inadequate in raising children and constantly thinks that she is missing something. Especially during this period, it is important for spouses to support each other and tell each other that they are trying to do the best they can. Afterwards, with the acceptance process of the disease, families make plans for treatment.
A child with a physical illness or disability needs much more care and effort from his family than healthy children. Some studies have found that more stress and negative emotions occur in these families. This sometimes strengthens family ties and sometimes causes the father to move further away from the family.
Since the most important person in the care of the sick child is usually the mother, the role of the father is often seen as unimportant. In this process, of course, economic difficulties may put the father in a difficult situation.
A good marital relationship is very important in combating the child's disability. Mothers defined their spouses as their most important social support and emphasized that good relationships with friends and relatives make parents stronger.
Therefore, the problems are caused by their spouses. Sharing time together, families spending time on hobbies, and giving practical information that can be done at home by private educational institutions make it easier for spouses to manage each other. It is also important to explain the obstacles clearly to the family and make plans for the future. Increasing communication within the family will not only help parents relax, but will also directly help their child relax.
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