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The disclosure of a diagnosis of cerebral palsy and its related disabilities is a difficult situation for parents, caregivers and physicians. A literature review shows that for the past 20 years, the number of dissatisfied parents has not changed. The goal of this qualitative and exploratory study - made at the request of the rehabilitation community - is to describe the process by which a diagnosis of cerebral palsy is disclosed, from the perspective of the people involved, and to determine what factors foster or inhibit a trusting relationship. Results show that parents, caregivers and physicians have two different perspectives at the time of disclosure, and it is difficult for them to agree. Parents are overwhelmed by the tragedy, while physicians are focused on the information they are providing. The disclosure creates great uncertainty that can block communication among parents, caregivers and physicians, but it could also be used to stimulate new coping strategies.