The effect of occupational therapy intervention on mothers of children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Using the interviewing techniques and ethnographic methodology reported by Hinojosa, we explored the relationships between mothers of preschool children with cerebral palsy and their children's occupational therapists. Data from two interviews with five mothers were transcribed, organized into topics, and, through constant comparative analysis, formulated into themes. One theme, "Is anybody listening?" suggested that professionals often disregard information provided by the mothers; a second theme, "Not another one," revealed the importance of continuity of care and the patient hardship of frequently changing therapists. Consistent with Hinojosa's study, all of the mothers sought duplicative therapy. All of the mothers had established positive relationships with their occupational therapists and described them as skilled agents of change who were effective in helping their children and who were valuable sources of information and support.