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Family Acceptance of Children with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The birth of a child with disabilities is an unexpected experience that may trigger several responses in parents, such as the diagnosis impact, feelings and reactions, as well as the need for adaptation and acceptance to ensure child development. Considering that, this systematic literature review aims to understand how families receive the diagnosis of disabilities, in particular of intellectual disability. Sixteen articles from the Scielo, Lilacs, and Science Direct databases were selected and analyzed according to the following categories: a) communication of disability diagnosis; b) feelings and reactions to the disability diagnosis; and c) possibility of child development. The results indicate that most health professionals are unprepared to communicate such diagnosis in an appropriate manner, thus comprising an important issue to be addressed during medical training. Considering the complexity of receiving a disability diagnosis and its impact on the parents, professionals communicating this condition must necessarily provide comfort to the feelings experienced by parents through humanized care. Besides clear information, the family must also obtain basic instructions regarding the necessary care and procedures, rehabilitation services, early stimulation resources, and reference centers for orientation. Moreover, professionals should also mention the possibility of child development.

Keywords:
Disability; Cognitive Development; Childhood; Family Relations

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