Attitudes towards disabled persons and the possible effects of prenatal diagnosis. An interview study among 53 women participating in prenatal diagnosis and 20 of their husbands

Abstract

Seventy-three parents-to-be participating in prenatal diagnosis (PND) were interviewed about their ideas about having a severely disabled child. Fifty percent thought that the disabled child suffered, and 100% said that the whole family suffered. Moreover, about 30% also thought that the child could give positive experiences. Although almost all of the individuals gave preference to the non-disabled members of the family, about 50% hesitated in doing so. The participants also answered questions about the possibility of changes of attitudes towards disabled persons as a result of prenatal diagnosis. About 30% thought that there is a risk of development of more negative attitudes and 50% thought that a mother who gives birth to a disabled child might experience some pressure from society.

Key Words:

• Prenatal diagnosis (PND)
• Attitudes towards disabled persons
• Interview study