The effect of the severely or profoundly mentally handicapped child on family functioning

Abstract

Investigates the influence of the seriously or extremely mentally retarded child in the functioning of the family. Five families, chosen according to specific criteria, participated in the study over a period of three months. Data was collected by means of a structured interview schedule and observation. The presence of a seriously mentally retarded child is found to affect families financially, physically, in their interpersonal relationships and in their social life, as well as in their internal and external support systems. However, it is found that effects are positive as well as negative. The families are also shown to experience tension, in spite of denials, perhaps as a subconscious result of living with a handicapped child. Due to the small sample of families, the study cannot claim to be generally applicable.