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The experience of raising a child with down syndrome : perceptions of caregivers in KwaZulu-Natal.Barr, Megan. January 2013 (has links)
Introduction: Due to limited research within KwaZulu-Natal there is a deficit in the
knowledge base and understanding surrounding the dynamics of caring for a child
diagnosed with Down syndrome. The study aims to inform health professionals who
adopt a psychosocial approach, such as occupational therapist, in an effort to
improve the therapy and handling of the caregivers and children.
Methodology: A sequential explanatory mixed method approach with an interpretive
phenomenological perspective was utilized. Sampling utilized non-probability
methods from the Down syndrome Association (KwaZulu-Natal) database. An initial
quantitative descriptive survey (n=57) guided the subsequent qualitative phase
encompassing focus groups and interviews (n=18). Quantitative data was statistically
analyzed using SPSS (version 21) and the transcribed quantitative data utilized
thematic analysis with in vivo, emotions and descriptive coding.
Results and Discussion: Experiences were primarily influenced by initial reactions
of the participants; their level of knowledge of the syndrome and reactions to
informing their family and community. Thereafter the positive and negative aspects
of raising the child affected their perceptions.
Conclusion: Many factors contributed to the participants‟ perceptions of raising a
child with Down syndrome, namely: community and family attitudes; support
structures available; positive factors such as personal growth as well as negative
factors such as the erratic health of the child and difficulties with inter-personal
relationships. However; an overall positive perception was reported by the
participants, with an emphasis on advice to other caregivers based on lived
experience. / Thesis (M.O.T.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2013.
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Employment in down syndrome : the experiences of individuals with down syndrome, their employers and families in KwaZulu-Natal.Tod, Courtney Jayne. 12 September 2014 (has links)
Employment is viewed as one of the pinnacle factors in enhancing quality of life. Despite being a right in South Africa, the employment opportunities available to individuals with Down syndrome are limited. This study aimed to explore the employment experiences of individuals with Down syndrome, their employers and their families in KwaZulu-Natal. This research provided valuable information for Speech-Language Therapists on enhancing communication in the workplace as effective communication in the workplace is crucial for employment. A qualitative approach and phenomenological design were used within the context of International Classification Framework, biopsychosocial model and critical paradigm. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Results revealed that individuals with Down syndrome valued their employment for the emotional and financial support it provided and the skill development opportunities available. Gaps were evident in legislation specific to the employment of individuals with Down syndrome as well as the implementation of these limited policies. Communication is necessary in the workplace; however, it is one of the areas that is severely impacted in individuals with Down syndrome. Employers and family members’ experiences indicated variability in speech intelligibility, language and literacy skills among the participants with Down syndrome linked to cognitive ability, intervention, education received, mood swings and memory loss. Intriguing trends relating to the positive use of technological devices for social and recreational purposes were evident. Employment success can be linked to successful job selection, visual and emotional support. Speech-Language Therapists, employers, family members and the Down syndrome association were found to have crucial roles in providing this support. The role of the Speech-Language Therapist continues to evolve and is required across the lifespan for different purposes. / M.Sc. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 2013
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