Experiences of mothers living with children with special educational needs - case study at Cooperativa Luana Semeia Sorrisos (COLUAS)

Abstract

The birth of a child brings with it expectations for the parents as well as those around them and when expectations are not met, lifestyle as well as family dynamics can be affected, bringing psychosocial consequences. The present study was carried out at Cooperativa Luana Semeia Sorrisos (COLUAS) in Maputo City, with the aim of understanding the experiences of mothers living with Children with Special Educational Needs (CNEE). Methodologically, the research adopted a qualitative approach with the interview technique as a data collection instrument, with the participation of a population of 18 mothers, one being selected for the case study. The research results revealed that, on the one hand, disability in children generates difficulties for parents to accept and care for the child and, on the other hand, there are difficulties in accessing the diagnosis in CNEE. The research concluded that the experiences of mothers living with CNEE range from prejudice to discrimination on the part of the family and other children. Hence, it becomes necessary to design programs that aim to provide psychosocial assistance to parents as well as provide psychoeducation to communities about Special Educational Needs. However, research with larger samples is needed to better understand the topic and implement effective strategies[1].

[1] The research was not funded. It was paid for by the author.