The Lived Experience of Motherhood to Children with Speech Delay at Agatos Academy in Addis Ababa
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Date
2024-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This phenomenological study aims to explore the experiences of mothers with children experiencing speech delay at Agatos Kindergarten. By examining motherhood as an experience, agency, and subjectivity, as well as an institution influenced by mainstream and patriarchal social structures, the study sought to understand how mothers handle their children's speech delays, the challenges they face, and the strategies they use to cope. Seven mothers with children experiencing speech delay were chosen as participants from Agatos Academy in Addis Ababa. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and in-depth interactions with the participants. Furthermore, the researcher's personal experience as a mother of a child with speech delay also influenced the discussions. The findings indicate that motherhood transforms women as they deal with their child's speech delay. Despite the challenges stemming from their role as mothers and the influence of mainstream social structures, the experiences of the seven mothers demonstrate how motherhood continually evolves as they strive to provide their children with support and intervention. Consequently, mothers of children with speech delays adapt to their circumstances by transforming themselves and seeking to change the mainstream and patriarchal societal norms that restrict their opportunities in various ways. The study recommends providing continuous training to mothers who have children with speech delays or other disabilities, which complements the effort to create an inclusive society in Ethiopia. Professionals in their pre or in-service training must be trained on how to approach and engage parents. Since producing a large number of professionals and therapists who can provide paid care and intervention to special needs children takes time, it is imperative to train mothers to provide support according to the needs of their respective children.
Keywords: Motherhood, Speech-delay, Therapy
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Keywords
Motherhood, Speech-delay, Therapy