Experience of Appraisal, Stress and Adaption of Parents having Children with Down syndrome: The case of Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Eyesus Center for Mentally Challenged Children

Abstract

Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition that occur when an error in the cell division results in a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21. The additional gene affects the individual’s physical features, intellect, and overall development and causes distinctive characteristics associated with an individual with Down syndrome. There are many challenges parents face in raising these special children. It demands a great deal of sacrifice and patience. According to the research finding the main challenges of parents were psychological problems, difficulty to manage the family, economic strains, social stigma and lack of access to facilities and services for their children. The study aimed at exploring the experience appraisal, stress and adaption of parents in raising their children diagnosed with Down syndrome.