Macierzyństwo w obliczu niepełnosprawności intelektualnej dziecka

Abstract

The aim of this article is to explore the situation of women who are mothers of children with intellectual disability. The following issues were analysed: the birth of the child and the accompanying emotions, the support received by the women surveyed, the difficulties experienced by mothers after receiving a diagnosis of their child’s intellectual disability, and their satisfaction with life. The study used a diagnostic survey method; the research technique was a questionnaire. The study group consisted of 35 mothers of children with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities. The research has shown that it is important to develop knowledge of motherhood in the face of a child’s intellectual disability in order to understand women’s reactions in their relationships with professionals, as well as to skillfully support women – both by those closest to them and by their social environment. It is also important to focus on respite care for women who devote their full time and energy to caring for and bringing up their offspring. This provides them with an opportunity to regenerate, rest and return to pursuing their passions. Ongoing research indicates the need to combine theoretical and practical knowledge and the relevance of supporting mothers of children with intellectual disabilities in different areas.