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Being a parent with a physical disability: an exploration of lived experiences
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Date
2024
Authors
Dunne, Amanda
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University College Cork
Published Version
Abstract
Objective: This thesis portfolio aims to (1) synthesise the qualitative literature exploring the parenting experiences of adults with both acquired and congenital physical disabilities, and (2) explore the parenting experiences of fathers with acquired physical disabilities.
Methods: A systematic review and thematic synthesis were conducted to synthesise the qualitative literature exploring the parenting experiences of adults with physical disabilities. 11 studies were identified following searching of CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases, in addition to backward snowballing. All studies were also subjected to quality appraisal. Seven fathers with acquired physical disabilities were also interviewed about their parenting experiences, with an interpretative phenomenological analysis being undertaken to analyse the data collected.
Results: Each of the studies within the systematic review were deemed to be of high quality, with seven themes identified from the thematic synthesis: stigmatisation and the need to prove competence as a parent; feeling underrepresented as a parent with a physical disability; environmental limitations; experiences of accessing support; using skills and strategies to fulfil parenting role; children’s roles and reactions, and changes as they grow, and safety, wellness and health when parenting with a physical disability. Three group experiential themes were identified from the interpretative phenomenological analysis of seven fathers’ interviews: (1) the meaning of fatherhood, (2) navigating a complex emotional landscape, and (3) the dynamic nature of relationships.
Conclusions: A number of clinical implications stemming from the findings of both studies are discussed, in addition to important areas for future research.
Description
Keywords
Physical disabilities , Parenting , Caregiving , Qualitative methods , Systematic review , Interpretative phenomenological analysis
Citation
Dunne, A. 2024. Being a parent with a physical disability: an exploration of lived experiences. DClinPsych Thesis, University College Cork.