EFFECTS OF SUPPORT SERVICES ON PARENTS WITH INTELLECTUALLY DISABLED CHILDREN IN NKORANZA SOUTH MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

The care of children with intellectual disabilities is primarily undertaken by mothers who are considered the primary caregivers. This often predisposes them to a lot of physical, social and economic stress. For this reason, this study examines the effects of the available support services with the aim of making parents experiences visible to stakeholders. It will guide the design and provision of support services for them and their children. The study employed a case study design, purposive and snowballing sampling techniques in selecting sixteen (16) parents with intellectual disabled children and seven (7) key informants from support providers residing in Nkoranza south municipality in the Brong Ahafo Region. Semi-structured interviews and observation guided the data collection. The study found that families, government and non-governmental agencies provided parents with informational, emotional, financial, and social support in their quest for cure for their children. The support received contributed to parents reduced burden and hardship. Parents had emotional strength, hope and nourishment in dealing with provoking feeling of disappointment and heartbreak. In addition, parents had free time to engage in economic activities. Likewise, few parents who received financial support: livelihood support, cash transfers and disability grant had improved income status. Parent‘s improved social relation helped them to cope with their predicament in a better way. The support effected the ID children academic, social and vocational skills development. Hence, the study recommends that stakeholders should improve financial support, and equip the special schools with vocational training workshops that would enhance the social and vocational skills of the children.