Article on the Lived Experiences of Parents of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study examined the lived experiences of parents of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities in Zimbabwe. These disabilities that those incurred during the developmental phase. They affect behaviour, memory, concentration and the ability to learn. The aim of the research was to understand the experiences of the parents in Zimbabwe’s economic, cultural and the societal context. The objectives involve understanding the experiences of these parents, secondly examining the coping strategies and lastly investigate the support services available to the parents. The methodology employed was a qualitative one with a phenomenological design. A sample of 15 participants was interviewed. The interviews were followed with a thematic analysis which gave rise to the results. On the experiences parents with their children faced stigma, family disintegration, misconceptions about the causes and negativity regarding the future of their children. On the coping strategies it was found that the parents find strengths in prayer, strengths observed in their affected child, support groups and keeping busy. Existing support services were education and financial assistance. These findings helped to draw a conclusion that parents face significant changes that include stigma, cultural misconceptions as well as lack of institutional support. Despite all these challenges they are resilient and confide in their religious beliefs and children’s strength to deal with challenges. This exposes the need to focus on the welfare of parents as much as their children as they are equally affected.