Sorrow, coping and resiliency: parents of children with cerebral palsy share their experiences

• DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2012.737081
• Publication Date: 2012-11-20T11:01:46Z
• Authors: Koa Whittingham; Diana Wee; Matthew R. Sanders; Roslyn Boyd
• Keywords: Sorrow; Thematic Analysis

Purpose: To explore the grieving, coping and resiliency experiences of parents children with cerebral palsy (CP) to investigate suitability chronic sorrow theory as a framework understand those experiences. Methods: This study combined focus groups web-based cross-sectional survey in CP. Eight CP participated groups. The discussion was transcribed verbatim thematic analysis performed. A further 94 which they completed Adapted Burke Questionnaire on sorrow. content responses used confirm primary qualitative analysis. Results: reports group were consistent theory, survey. Some found diagnosis itself distressing time whereas others it relief. Parents reported that times medical allied health intervention particularly challenging. Conclusion: Chronic sorry is useful way understanding It recommended practitioners are mindful that, even years after diagnosis, may experience intensified symptoms following triggering event this normal.Implications for RehabilitationThis suggests suitable CP.Parents grief event, diagnosis.This recurring grieving process healthy normal many demonstrating resilience by using an array strategies or seeking support from professionals.