Factors related to positive perceptions in mothers of children with intellectual disabilities

Background Existing theoretical and empirical work in the intellectual disability field has paid little attention to parents' positive perceptions of their child and the positive impact that the child may have on the family generally. The main aim of the present study was to explore the factors related to the mothers' positive perceptions of their child with intellectual disability. Methods The mothers of 41 children with intellectual disabilities completed a self-report questionnaire that measured demographic factors, child demographic variables (including caregiving demand), social support, coping strategies and dimensions of positive perceptions. Results Mothers' perceptions of the child as a source of happiness/fulfilment and as a source of strength and family closeness were positively associated with reframing coping strategies. Mothers' perceptions of the child as a source of personal growth and maturity were also positively associated with reframing coping strategies, the helpfulness and usefulness of support from family and friends, and the caregiving demand. Conclusions The relationship between coping and parental positive perceptions requires more investigation both theoretically and empirically. This relationship may also have important implications for the support of families of children with intellectual disabilities.