Impacto positivo de la discapacidad en la familiapercepciones de los padres

Abstract

Aim: research in the field of intellectual disability has traditionally focused on the negative effects that this situation entails. However, more and more frequent studies, according to Positive Psychology, describe factors of resilience, strengths, coping strategies and positive impact of disability on the family. The aim of the present study was to explore the positive impact that disability may have on the family. Method: there have been involved 30 parents of people with intellectual disabilities. The method of data collection and analysis is qualitative interview and analysis of content. Results: the results suggest a wide range of positive experiences associated with disability, such as: awareness of own strengths, ability to enjoy small achievements or increased family cohesion. Conclusion: most parents view their experience as a source of personal and social transformation. According to other studies, negative and positive effects of disability on the family may coexist. Besides, it seems that negative effects are related to factors such as challenging behavior or lack of social support, more than to cognitive disability.