The essence and meaning of transgenerational care of children with developmental disabilities

• Main Author: Villas, Ricardo R., Jr.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2014
• Subjects: Kinship care; Developmental disabilities; Special Education and Teaching
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/5092
• Institution: De La Salle University

This phenomenological study was designed to explore the meaning of lived experiences of grandmothers who provided transgenerational care and support to their grandchildren with developmental disabilities. Three grandmothers who met the inclusion criteria in this study were purposively chosen. Relevant data were gathered using in-depth face to face interview. Moreover, data were subjected to analysis using Colaizzi's descriptive method of phenomenology. The results of the study revealed six themes that encapsulated the transgenerational caregiving experiences of grandmothers. These themes included changes in individual and family roles, developing relationship, support system, coping mechanism, spiritual and cultural rootedness and finding meaning and purpose in life. Performing transgenerational caregiving responsibilities would mean role adjustment among grandmothers however, these experiences brought them a sense of meaning and significance. It also enabled them to prepare the child for independent living through imparting relevant knowledge, skills, values, and beliefs.