Challenges of Parents with Spina Bifida Children and their Coping Mechanism: The Case of Parents Receiving Service at Zewditu Memorial Hospital
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Date
2017-11
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Spina Bifida (SB) is considered the commonest of the neural tube defects (NTDs).Folic
acid could significantly reduce the birth incidence of NTDs by as much as 70%, both as
first occurrences and in high-risk women. Women of reproductive age should make sure
their folic acid intake is adequate. The objective of this study was to asses challenges of
parents diagnosed with Spina Bifida children and their coping mechanism. Specifically, it
aimed to answer research questions: What are the major challenges of parents with spinal
bifida children in relation to psychological, social, economical and marital? and how
parents of Spina Bifida children cope those challenges. This study was carried out in
Zewditu Memorial Hospital. The study employed a qualitative research method with case
study design A total of twenty one
participants (Eighteen
parents and Three key
informants) were purposively sampling technique selected to take part in the study. Data
was gathered through in-depth interviews, focus group discussion and observation. The
findings of this study show parents of children with Spina Bifida had indicated several
challenges faced psychological, emotional, social, economical. However, participant
parents used coping mechanism such as problem focused coping, emotion focused coping.
For many of the participant parents believing in their respective faith was the first emotion
oriented strategy coping mechanism. Findings from this study further suggested health
social worker should be aware of the concern of parents and solve such challenges with
their education, counseling and supportive methods
Description
Keywords
Spina Bifida, diagnosis, treatment and psychosocial.