Zihinsel Engelli Bireye Sahip Ailelerin İhtiyaç Örüntülerinin İncelenmesi

Abstract

In this study, the needs of families with individuals with intellectual disabilities were examined within the framework of Max-Neef's "Needs Theory" across four different life cycles. The research aimed to identify the experiences of these families, determine their coping strategies with difficulties, and propose solutions from a social work perspective. Designed with a qualitative approach, this research is based on a phenomenological approach. The study was conducted between June and July 2020 with purposively selected participants from across Turkey through online interviews. Data were collected from 24 participants in 18 families with individuals with intellectual disabilities through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The data were analyzed using qualitative analysis along with the life experiences of the researcher, who also has a mentally disabled child, and four main themes emerged in the research. These can be expressed as the moment of birth and infancy, childhood, education and employment. According to Max-Neef's "Needs Theory" and its existential and value categories, needs during the birth and infancy period (informational needs, shock, acceptance, rejection, and support mechanisms) were identified as being and understanding needs. Childhood needs (proximity of environment and social support, as well as kindergarten and preschool) were related to having and protection needs. Educational needs during the schooling period (special education, formal education, and Guidance Research Center) were associated with doing and understanding needs. Lastly, needs during the employment stage (experiences in the immediate environment, social sphere, and institutional units) were identified as interacting and understanding needs. The study analyzed these needs and, based on the ecological approach of social work, developed specific practices and recommendations within the individual's and family's environment to meet the identified needs of families with individuals with intellectual disabilities throughout the family life cycle.