Summary: | 碩士 === 國立高雄大學 === 運動健康與休閒學系碩士班 === 98 === This study investigated quality of life (QOL), parental stress and related factors in parents with children suffering from cerebral palsy (PCCPs) and attempted to assess their relationship with regard to the severity of a child’s motor disability. Using a case-control study design, data were collected primarily through the use of survey questionnaires. In total, 147 PCCPs as well as 143 parents of healthy children participated in the study. Demographic data including children’s age, sex and the parents’ age, sex, residence and education were also compared with those of the study group. Measurement instruments for the study included the Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF), Parental Stress Scales (PSI/SF). Also, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) was used for the children with cerebral palsy. The basic information of the children and parents focused upon: severity of motor disability, related diseases, rehabilitation, and frequency of parents asking for related support system. The data were analyzed with the SPSS 14.0Windows statistical package. The results of the study indicated significantly worsened QOL and parental stress was more likely to be observed in PCCPs than in comparisons to the parents of healthy children. Specifically, a negative correlation between QOL and parental stress was noted in PCCPs. Also, QOL and parental stress were significantly correlated with the severity of a child’s motor disability. They were also reported physical problems, including tenderness over lower back, upper back and wrist sprain. The PCCPs’ important supporter is spouse, other families and therapists. The predictor of QOL and parental stress is the severity of a child’s motor disability, overall QOL, general health and household income. The QOL and parental stress of parents of children is different from those who have a healthy child. Different coping strategies and psychosocial programs must be designed and implemented to decrease the burden of care. Health professionals have a role to assist families with information needs to prepare for key periods in the lives of their children with children.
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