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. 2022 Mar;35(2):531-536.
doi: 10.1111/jar.12964. Epub 2021 Nov 29.

'We can't do it alone': Perceived social support in parents of children with a significant cognitive and motor developmental delay

Ines Van Keer  1 , Karla Van Leeuwen  1 , Bea Maes  1
Affiliations

'We can't do it alone': Perceived social support in parents of children with a significant cognitive and motor developmental delay

Ines Van Keer et al. J Appl Res Intellect Disabil. 2022 Mar.

Abstract

Background: It is generally acknowledged that parent social support is an important target for intervention. To explore the specific needs of parents of young children with a significant cognitive and motor developmental delay (SDD), we aim to chart the sources and perceived sufficiency of the social support they receive.

Method: Within the context of a broader project, 42 parents of a young child with SDD filled out a questionnaire on contextual factors, including information on social support.

Results: The majority of parents reported to receive (more than) sufficient support. Insufficiency is primarily reported with regard to practical support. Apart from the partner, grandparents of the child were the most common source of support.

Conclusions: This study confirms the importance of professional support and work-life balance within this specific target group. Specific attention for practical support needs seems warranted considering the high basic care needs of these children.

Keywords: parents; profound and multiple disabilities; significant cognitive and motor developmental delay; social support; support sources.

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References

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