PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES OF PARENTAL ACCEPTANCE OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Authors: JENELYN T. PEÑA, EdD , ROSE LYNN D. VILLANUEVA, MAGC TRICIA GAYLE C. BONDOC, MASE
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19222171
Page No: 87-105
Abstract
Parental acceptance of children with special needs is an ever- changing and dynamic process that is influenced by psychological challenges and social factors. Parents often go through stages of denial, grief, guilt, and gradual adjustment as they come to terms with their child's condition. While earlier research has looked at parental stress and coping methods, fewer studies have focused on acceptance as an ongoing journey shaped by cultural expectations, family dynamics, and stigma. In the Philippines, where community values and family reputation play a significant role, parental acceptance faces additional challenges from societal pressures. However, this topic has not been thoroughly explored in local research. This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to fill this gap by capturing the experiences of parents with children who have special needs. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with eleven selected mothers of children ages 2-15, all of whom were residents of Pampanga, Philippines, were purposely selected as participants. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase reflexive thematic analysis. The analysis revealed five main themes: (1) Journey Through Emotional Turmoil and Adjustment, (2) Internal and External Factors Shaping Acceptance, (3) Support as a Pillar of Strength, (4) Transformation of Parent-Child Bonds, and (5) Building Coping and Resilience Pathways. The findings show that parental acceptance is not a static phenomenon but a dynamic process that can be aided by faith, resilience, professional help, and strong family and community support, but often hindered by stigma and cultural factors. This study emphasizes the need for family-centered and culturally competent support services that focused on the need for educators, counselors, and policymakers to develop inclusive strategies to cope with both the internal and external challenges faced by parents of children with special needs.
