Experience of Mothers Raising Children With Disabilities

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the parenting experiences of mothers raising children under 18 years of age with disabilities.Methods: Data were collected through in-depth interviews with seven mothers, using semistructured questions. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the eight-step content analysis method proposed by Downe-Wamboldt.Results: Four themes and 12 categories were identified. Mothers experienced psychological distress, guilt, and social isolation and made sacrifices after their child’s diagnosis. Over time, they accepted their child’s disability, developed a mature sense of motherhood, and found hope for their child’s growth. Imbalances in family caregiving, differences in social support, disability-related stigma, lack of information, regional disparities in healthcare, and insufficient practical support were also identified.Conclusion: Mothers raising children with disabilities experience considerable psychological and caregiving burdens while gradually adapting through acceptance and resilience. These findings highlight the need for nursing interventions that provide psychological support, family-centered care, and integrated community support for these families.