Abstract

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder, occurring in 1 out of every 700 births in the United States (Skotko et al., 2009). After receiving the initial Down syndrome diagnosis, the majority of mothers reported feeling frightened and anxious, and very few rated the experience as positive. Parents reported feeling that their physicians focused on the negative aspects of Down syndrome and rarely provided enough resources (Skotko, 2005). The purpose of this literature review was to identify current community resources for families of children with Down syndrome and identify the most effective ways for medical professionals to support parents through the diagnosis process. A comprehensive literature review was performed using research articles from 2012 to 2022, exploring community resources for children with Down syndrome and coping mechanisms for parental stress in families with Down syndrome. Ten articles met the inclusion criteria. Six themes were identified; coping process and skills, resiliency, coping process for fathers, religion, community support systems and services, and support from the medical community. It was found that parents lack knowledge about available resources and need more education focusing on early interventions for their child and support services for the parents.

Thesis Completion

2023

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Duckworth, Nancy

Co-Chair

Luzincourt, Geraldine

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

College

College of Nursing

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-15-2023

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Nursing Commons

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