Title

Common Factors Contributing to the Adjustment Process of Mothers of Children Diagnosed With Down Syndrome: A Qualitative Study

Authors

Hannah Korkow-Moradi, Texas Tech University
Hye Jin Kim, Kean University
Nicole P. Springer, Texas Tech University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-3-2017

Abstract

Grounded theory analysis was used to identify common factors that contributed to the adjustment process of mothers following their child’s diagnosis of Down syndrome, and how they ultimately arrived at new perspectives of the diagnosis. Qualitative interviews were conducted and participant narratives were filled with references of: “shock and fear,” “not-knowing,” being negatively impacted by professionals, and encouragement they received from others. The final model included: initial reactions, barriers and buffers, and acquiring a new perspective. Mothers emphasized the benefits of raising a child with an extra chromosome and ultimately experiencing personal “growth” on this parenting journey. Implications for providers who interface with families living with children of Down syndrome were presented.

Publication Title

Journal of Family Psychotherapy

First Page Number

193

Last Page Number

204

DOI

10.1080/08975353.2017.1291238

Recommended Citation

Korkow-Moradi, Hannah; Kim, Hye Jin; and Springer, Nicole P., "Common Factors Contributing to the Adjustment Process of Mothers of Children Diagnosed With Down Syndrome: A Qualitative Study" (2017). Kean Publications. 1598.
https://digitalcommons.kean.edu/keanpublications/1598