Stress Implication of Rearing Children with Cerebral- Palsy and Down-Syndrome: Perceptions of Caregivers in Ilorin, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated stress implication of rearing children with cerebral-palsy (CP) and Down syndrome (DS) as perceived by caregivers in Ilorin, Nigeria. The study highlighted the levels, causes as well as coping strategies adopted by caregivers. A qualitative research approach was adopted using semi –structured interview. The population sample consists of twenty-five participants (caregivers). Thematic analysis was used to analyze data collected from respondents. It was revealed by majority of respondents (88%) that rearing of children living with CP and DS is extremely stressful. Total dependency, low mental assimilation and inadequate communication were revealed by majority of the respondents (95%) as major causes of stress. Poor coping strategies were adopted by caregivers (64%) in dealing with stress. Based on the findings of this study, it was recommended that Caregivers be assisted by professional bodies to more scientific ways of coping with stress resulting from rearing of children living with CP and DS in Ilorin, Nigeria.