Date of Award

2013

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Breann Lamborn

Second Advisor

Carla Wilhite

Keywords

Attitude; Caregivers -- psychology; Disabled Children; Occupational Therapy; Parents -- psychology; Quality of Life -- psychology

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to investigate caregivers' of children with disabilities perceptions related to their quality of life through engagement in meaningful occupations. Researchers hope that data from this study will contribute to the growing body of literature on caregivers of children with disabilities. Quality of life is an outcome measure that occupational therapists utilize in their practice.

Throughout the course of the study data was collected through the use of a semi structured interview tool. Researchers developed this tool to allow participants to openly express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences related to having a child with a disability. Results of the study indicated that there is a broad impact of having a child with a disability. Participants rated their quality of life high, and expressed the added love and enjoyment that their children bring into their lives.

Data from the current study is targeted at developing a more comprehensive view of the quality of life of caregivers of children with disabilities. This data may assist occupational therapists in developing a greater understanding of the quality of life needs related to this population. Ultimately, researchers intend for this data to be utilized by therapists who work with this population to better provide holistic, family- centered care.

Download

Share

COinS