Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Assessing the Coherence of Parents' Short Narratives Regarding their Child Using the Five-Minute Speech Sample Procedure
Published on: September 19, 2019
Valuing difference: caregiving by mothers of children with disabilities
1Department of Occupational Therapy, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. susan.esdaile@med.monash.edu.au
Mothers who are caregivers of children with disabilities seek to have their children accepted and valued by others in society. This is supported by many reports of studies from different countries that involved mothers of children with disabilities, as well as through publications by disability advocates. In this paper, qualitative research data from interviews with seven mothers of children with disabilities were reanalysed using Bourdieu's theory of practice and van Manen's phenomenological methodology. The results showed that these mothers, who were caregivers of children with disabilities, valued their children despite ongoing challenges, and wanted others to do likewise. This study supports the importance of valuing difference in terms of the insights and understanding gained from those with disabilities and their caregivers. It would be difficult to replicate it exactly; its relevance lies in demonstrating that valuable insights can be gained from extending reflective practice to research that involves re-examining a study from a different theoretical perspective.
Mothers who are caregivers of children with disabilities seek to have their children accepted and valued by others in society. This is supported by many reports of studies from different countries that involved mothers of children with disabilities, as well as through publications by disability advocates. In this paper, qualitative research data from interviews with seven mothers of children with disabilities were reanalysed using Bourdieu's theory of practice and van Manen's phenomenological methodology. The results showed that these mothers, who were caregivers of children with disabilities, valued their children despite ongoing challenges, and wanted others to do likewise. This study supports the importance of valuing difference in terms of the insights and understanding gained from those with disabilities and their caregivers. It would be difficult to replicate it exactly; its relevance lies in demonstrating that valuable insights can be gained from extending reflective practice to research that involves re-examining a study from a different theoretical perspective.
Related Concept Videos
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Parental Care
Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Intellectual Disability
Continuing Care
