Perceptions of the support that mothers and fathers of children with cochlear implants receive in South Australia: a qualitative study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The study explored the perceptions of parents of children with cochlear implants regarding the support they have received. DESIGN: Semi-structured interviews were conducted and the resultant data was subjected to thematic analysis. STUDY SAMPLE: Participants were 12 mothers and four fathers from South Australia with a child with cochlear implants. RESULTS: Three major themes emerged: (1) a journey into a new world for parents, (2) services meet many but not all needs, and (3) parent connections and relationships. Most parents were satisfied with surgical, audiology, and early intervention services as well as specialist hearing-impairment schools, and perceived this support as helpful and adequate. However, some parents were critical of non-specialized teaching staff, and technical support for hearing devices. Parent recommendations for improved service provision included increased support, improved information, and additional professional services. CONCLUSIONS: Parent contributions suggest a need for service providers to develop support that is not only child-need oriented, but parent-need oriented, to better address service gaps. With a deeper understanding of parents' experiences and needs, service providers will have a greater capacity to develop a broader model of service that enhances parental engagement and coping.