Lived experiences of parents with deaf child

Abstract

For parents, raising a deaf child is a complex journey filled with unexpected obstacles, significant learning opportunities, and moments of strength and resilience. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of parents with deaf children. Five (5) participants from Iloilo were selected through purposive sampling and interviewed using semi- structured in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke was used to analyze the qualitative data. The findings of this study showed that when parents learn their child is deaf, they experience a range of emotions, from shock and dismay to frustration and eventual acceptance, all motivated by their love for their child. This emotional journey illustrated the importance of emotional support and coping skills for parents. Effective communication with their deaf children was a major challenge, therefore mastering sign language and other approaches was important for deeper relationships. These findings emphasized the need for ongoing resources and advocacy to assist the well-being and development of deaf children and their families. Support networks, which included family, friends, the deaf community, and the government, played an important role in giving emotional, practical, and financial aid, allowing parents to feel less isolated and more empowered. The changing caregiving dynamics highlighted the value of SPED methods, caregiving awareness, and parental resilience, resulting in more effective support for deaf children and their families. This qualitative research study provided valuable insights into the experiences of parents with deaf children, emphasizing the need for continued support, understanding, and inclusivity.