Exploring the Psychosocial Impact on Families Caring for Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Qualitative Study in Saudi...

Background: Parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP) experience several challenges in providing care, which can impact the child's quality of life. CP is one of the most common neurological conditions that demand a great deal of time and effort from caregivers. Purpose: To explore the psychological and social effects experienced by Saudi families while rearing children with CP. Methods: This research utilizes qualitative research methods. The purposive sampling method was used to select 13 caregivers of children with CP from the Children with Disability Association in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Personal interviews were conducted with a group of parents, then these interviews were analyzed to derive the experiences of the participants. Results: The findings highlighted the difficulties that these families go through from the moment the diagnosis was made, as well as other care burdens, including costs, isolation, and continuous anxiety and worries about the future of the children. Conclusions: This study identifies the need for organized psychological and social support, which has a significant impact on enhancing adaptability and the lives of the children.