‘Room of Gloom’: Reconceptualising Mothers of Children with Disabilities as Experiencing Trauma

Abstract

The experience of having a child with disabilities can be traumatic due to the nature of the child’s condition, fears for life, uncertainty about future quality of life and how news of the condition is imparted. Mothers of children with disabilities are known to experience high levels of stress, but participants in this study present evidence of post-traumatic stress. UK services are not designed to support traumatized parents, and health practice may serve to compound distress. The need for effective support for families, including in building social bonds, is highlighted.

Keywords:

• trauma
• mothers of children with disabilities
• post-traumatic stress
• family services

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Anne Emerson

Anne Emerson is an Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, UK. She teaches on a range of courses for teachers wanting to enhance their understanding of special educational needs and disabilities. She is interested in the enhancement of engagement, communication, literacy and learning of children with intellectual disabilities, pastoral care in schools and impact of disability on families.