Volume 21, Issue 4 pp. 341-350

Active Negotiation: Mothers with Intellectual Disabilities Creating Their Social Support Networks

Rachel Mayes

Rachel Mayes

Australian Family & Disability Studies Research Collaboration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Lidcombe, NSW, Australia

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Gwynnyth Llewellyn

Gwynnyth Llewellyn

Australian Family & Disability Studies Research Collaboration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Lidcombe, NSW, Australia

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David McConnell

David McConnell

Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada

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First published: 09 July 2008
Citations: 43

Abstract

Background The support networks of mothers with intellectual disabilities play an important role in caring for children. Understanding the support provided by the network is therefore vital in understanding the capacity of a mother to care for her child. Nevertheless, how these important networks came into existence is yet to be explored. Furthermore, the other functions support networks may serve are poorly understood, apart from assistance with child care.

Materials and Methods This paper reports some findings from a phenomenological study into becoming a mother for women with intellectual disabilities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 expectant mothers with intellectual disabilities. One part of the phenomenon, ‘negotiating a support network for me and my baby’ is described.

Results Expectant mothers strategically negotiated support networks prior to the baby’s birth. They sought practical assistance for the tasks of mothering from those who acknowledged them as the most important person in their baby’s life.

Conclusions The findings have implications for the practitioners engaged in supporting mothers and their children, particularly those who are a part of the lives of women with intellectual disabilities and their children due to a court order.

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