Gender Differences on Parenting Attitudes of Parents with Cerebral Palsied Children

Abstract

This present study was designed to compare the similarities and differences between fathers and mothers in terms of their parenting attitudes. This study also determined the impact of having a child with cerebral palsy and how this might influence parenting attitudes. In addition, the initial reactions, adjustment and coping mechanisms of both parents were also explored. Thirty fathers and thirty mothers, aged 24-50 who have children with cerebral palsy aged 1-17 years old, participated in the survey that measured their parenting attitudes and the impact of having a child with cerebral palsy in terms of spiritual, psychological, economic and family impact. In-depth interviews were also conducted on five fathers and five mothers, in order to gain more comprehensive information on parenting attitudes. Results showed that in parenting attitudes, both have the same dominant attitude which is affection and closeness with the child. However, they differ in that mothers appeared to be more competent in taking care of the child as mothers have been the primary caregiver while fathers have been the financial supporter of the family. When it comes to the impact of having the child, both have been affected greatly in terms of their spirituality and changes in family structure. As to the relationship of impact to parenting attitudes, it was found out that for mothers, impact has a significant influence on parenting attitudes while on fathers impact has no direct influence on their attitudes. On their initial reactions, mothers have been more emotional upon learning the condition of the child while fathers are more stable. On their coping mechanism, fathers tend to use external coping strategies while mothers use internal coping strategies. It is recommended that a more extensive exploration of the study be implemented in order to gain more substantial information regarding the parenting attitudes of mothers and fathers with cerebral palsied children.