Beginning the Transition to Adulthood

Abstract

This qualitative study focused on the experiences of six 20-to 23-year-old persons with cerebral palsy and their parents during the transition to adulthood and explored perceived changes in their relationship. Using semi-structured interviews, three interrelated themes emerged: (a) perceptions of readiness for increased autonomy, (b) opportunities for the young adults to make independent decisions and learn from life experiences, and (c) shifting parental roles. The youths' autonomy related to parental perceptions of their readiness and push for autonomy, the parents' personal beliefs and readiness to support the changing relationship, and the parents' needs for separation from the child. In some families of youths requiring ongoing support for personal care, finances were a barrier to altering relationships with their child.

Keywords: Adolescence; adulthood; cerebral palsy; families.