From the parents’ perspective: qualitative exploration of caregiving challenges and coping strategies of children with intellectual disability

The care of children with intellectual disabilities (ID) is a complex and challenging process that deeply affects the lives and psychological of their parents. This study guided is by the Family Quality of Life (FQoL) theory and aims to understand the challenges faced by parents in caregiving and their coping strategies. This study employed a qualitative approach and conducted semi-structured interviews with 16 parents of children with ID. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. The data were analysed by thematic analysis. Parents reported the multidimensional impact of raising children with ID on the individual, family, and social levels and shared their coping strategies. Five themes emerged including emotional and psychological challenges, economic challenges, social challenges, children's core disorder challenges, and coping strategies. Regarding coping strategies, parents adopted various strategies to overcome challenges including self-regulation, learning and growth, outdoor activities therapy, and seeking support. This study further explores the multifaceted challenges encountered by parents in raising children with ID and the effective coping strategies they employed. Moreover, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, social workers, and educational institutions to develop more effective support systems for these families.