Work

Perceived life satisfaction of parents raising a child with intellectual disabilities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Assessment of life satisfaction is the result of comparing one's situation with the standards set by oneself. If the comparison result is satisfactory, it results in high satisfaction. Giving birth to a child with an intellectual disability significantly influences parents' assessment of satisfaction. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between selected socio-demographic factors and the level of life satisfaction of parents of a child with intellectual disabilities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included families raising a child with intellectual disabilities. They were parents of students who continued their education in rehabilitation and education centres (OTEW) and special schools. A total of 1,216 parents participated in a paper and electronic survey. The questionnaires included the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) in Juczynski's Polish adaptation, and a questionnaire containing questions concerning socio-demographic data. RESULTS: Analysis showed that 58% of parents rated their satisfaction as low. Parents of children from special schools rated satisfaction higher. A higher level of educational correlated positively with life satisfaction. There was no relationship between the age of the child and gender on life satisfaction of the parents. CONCLUSIONS: Integrated actions should be taken to increase the level of life satisfaction among parents of children with intellectual disabilities. Measures should include psychological support in difficult situations, financial assistance, and employment flexibility (tailored to the parent's capabilities). An important factor is to promote the acceptance and integration of people with disabilities in society, including in schools, workplaces and local communities, to reduce parents' feelings of isolation.

Source: Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine

DOI: 10.26444/aaem/203276

Authors: Montowska Laura, Plinta Ryszard, Magdalena Maria Gruszczyńska

Institution: Medical University of Silesia

Language: English

Topic: Family and Disability Support Research

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $690