Recreation in Families with Children with Developmental Disabilities: Caregivers’ Use of Online and Offline Support Groups

Authors

  • Iryna Sharaievska Appalachian State University
  • Brooke Burk Minnesota State University, Mankato

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2018-V52-I1-8446

Keywords:

online leisure, e-leisure, children with disabilities, developmental disability, family leisure

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore what role online and offline support groups play in the lives of families with children who have developmental disabilities. Eight semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with married mothers who had one to five children. The study revealed that caregivers saw online and offline support groups as playing important but different roles in their lives and the lives of their families. Online support groups were particularly appreciated during the initial steps of learning about a child’s disability when caregivers felt isolated and eager to learn more. During that stage, online support groups offered them volumes of valuable information and access to people across the world who go through similar experiences. Offline support groups offered participants of this study a sense of strong connection and belonging, and allowed them to spend time with other adults and learn about resources available in their community. The mothers also appreciated the opportunity provided to the children with disabilities and their siblings to make friends and spend time together.

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Author Biographies

Iryna Sharaievska, Appalachian State University

Iryna Sharaievska is an Assistant Professor in Recreation Management and Physical Education Department, Appalachian State University. Her research interests are focused on technology-based leisure in contemporary families of diverse backgrounds.

Brooke Burk, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Brooke Burk is an Assistant Professor in Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services Department, Minnesota State University, Mankato. Her research interests are focused on youth development, leisure among minority youth, leisure among individuals with disabilities.

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Published

2018-03-07

Issue

Vol. 52 No. 1 (2018)

Section

Special Issue

License

Sagamore Publishing LLC (hereinafter the “Copyright Owner”)

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