A Study to Assess the Psychosocial Concerns and Coping Strategies of Parents of Mentally Challenged Attending Special Schools in Malappuram District, Kerala

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to explore the psychosocial concerns of parents of intellectually challenged children, to determine the coping mechanisms adopted by the parents, and to associate the psychosocial concerns of parents of mentally challenged people using the chosen demographic factors.
Introduction: Mental retardation is among the most common neurologic disorder which makes certain limits in mental, cognitive, and group activities.
Materials and Methods: A quantitative non-experimental research approach based on the transaction-based model of stress and coping by Lazarus and Folkman was used. Totally 150 parents of mentally challenged children at VKM Special School, Valanchery, RICCCH, Manjeri Head Office and Good Hope School, Manjeri, were selected as a sample by purposive sampling. The tools used were demographic pro forma, a structured questionnaire on psychosocial concerns, and the David L Tobin Rating Scale for coping strategies.
Results: Only 3.33% of parents got 10 out of 10 scores, 29.33% is the highest positive response, and no parents scored positive responses 1 and 2. 41.33% of the parents maintained an average social support strategy, and 45.33% had average social withdrawal strategy. There is a significant association (P < 0.05) of psychosocial concerns with their demographic variables such as the age of the parent, area of residence, monthly income, and gender of the child.
Conclusion: Parents should be motivated to score positive responses by 100% with adequate support. They should be aware of improving coping ability and the actively available multidisciplinary training. Adequate measures to be taken to enhance the bridging between the child and the society.