Article

The purpose of this study was to describe qualitatively the experience of
parenting for mothers of a child with Down syndrome and to explore what if any
was the role of spirituality and organized religion in this experience. Method: A
homogenous sample of eight mothers of children between 7 and 12 years of age with
Down syndrome was recruited through a population-based source of families of
children with Down syndrome in Western Australia. In-depth interviews were used
to explore the mother's experience of parenting and to examine the role of
spirituality and organized religion in their personal experience of mothering.
Results: In this study, stressful life events recounted by the mothers included
initial acceptance, developmental behaviour of the child, functionality of the
child, health conditions and financial stress. Overall spirituality was described
as a stronger and more dynamic source of support than organized religion in
coping with stressors and life's challenges associated with raising a child with
Down syndrome. Conclusion: Findings from this study revealed that being a mother
to a child with Down syndrome can best be described as a mosaic of experiences,
emotions and a journey of self growth. Both spirituality and organized religion
to a greater or lesser extent were useful in mediating stress and supporting
mothers particularly during challenging life events in the course of their
journey with their child with Down syndrome. [Box: see text].

Langue : ANGLAIS