This work was supported by a grant from Shalem Fund for Development of Services for People with Intellectual Disabilities in the Local Councils in Israel
The study was cross-sectional, data were collected from a convenience sample of 95 (74 mothers and 21 fathers) parents of children with Down Syndrome, using a self-administered questionnaire designed to assess parent strengths and coping. The questionnaire included 187 items. The results showed that overtime parents adapt to the child’s situation. Support is associated with better family outcomes,family stressors associated with less effective coping. Support and guidance from a therapist can help parents cope. Organizing meetings of parents of children with Down Syndrome will enable sharing their challenges and experiences of everyday life, which can help build relience and reduce stress.
Keywords: Down Syndrome, parents, coping, well-being, reslience