Exploring family resilience in parent caring for children with special needs

This qualitative study explores how couples raising a child with special needs manage caregiving-related stress and sustain their psychological and relational well-being. While prior research has predominantly focused on the psychological burden and dysfunction experienced by such families, this study adopts a resilience-oriented perspective grounded in the Family Resilience Framework. Using phenomenological research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 married individuals from 10 different couples to uncover the lived experiences and adaptive strategies employed in the face of ongoing caregiving challenges. Thematic analysis revealed three overarching themes: 1) Mutual Spousal Support, including shared caregiving responsibilities and emotional responsiveness; 2) Social Network, comprising support from extended family, community, and social media; and 3) Religious Belief in Coping, which involved framing hardship through spiritual narratives and deriving strength from worship. Findings highlight the internal and external resources that foster resilience and underscore the significance of meaning-making, relational rituals, and community-based support in enhancing family well-being. This study contributes to the literature by shifting the focus from pathology to strength, offering practical insights for family-centered interventions, mental health services, and policy frameworks that aim to empower caregiving couples.