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
Recommended Citation
Brophy, Ashley M., "Nursing Interventions for Families of Children with Down Syndrome Evaluating Coping Mechanisms and Community Resources" (2023). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 1332.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/honorstheses/1332
Included in
Accessibility Statement
This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.