Coping strategies adopted by Iranian families of children with Down syndrome: A qualitative study

Down syndrome (DS) is the leading cause of intellectual disability. Previous quantitative studies have examined the effects of DS on families of children with DS. This study explored the coping strategies adopted by the families of children with DS. This was a qualitative content analysis study, in which the participants were selected using purposive sampling from the families of children with DS. Semi-structured interviews were performed and collected data were analyzed. A total of 20 family members (10 mothers, 6 fathers, 2 brothers, and 2 sisters) were interviewed. Six categories were extracted in this study, namely “searching for information,” “paying attention to children's healthcare needs,” “concentration on spirituality,” “teaching socially appropriate behavioral skills,” “efforts to increase self-reliance in children,” and “development of family support circle.” The participating families were able to use positive adaptive mechanisms and cope well with the problems associated with having a child with DS. However, they still needed more support from healthcare providers and support organizations. Receiving more support from healthcare providers, such as nurses, can help them in better management of their children.