Voices of Strength: A Phenomenological Study of Parental Experiences in Raising Children with Special Needs

Abstract

Raising a child with special needs presents both profound joys and significant challenges for parents and guardians, encompassing emotional, financial, and social dimensions. This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of parents raising children with special needs in Tacurong City using a phenomenological research design. Data were collected from five parents representing children in Grades 7 to 11 to capture diverse perspectives and provide an authentic understanding of caregiving realities. The findings revealed that parents and guardians encounter multifaceted challenges that affect their emotional well-being, financial stability, and daily routines. They experience emotional stress, psychological adjustments, and practical difficulties arising from medical care, therapy, and balancing work with caregiving responsibilities. Despite these challenges, participants demonstrated resilience, unwavering commitment, and deep love for their children, which serve as motivating factors in their caregiving roles. The study also highlighted the sources of strength that parents rely on to manage caregiving demands, including spiritual faith, family support, personal resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility toward their children. Faith and prayer provided emotional stability, while family members offered practical and emotional assistance, enabling parents to persevere in fulfilling their roles. Furthermore, participants emphasized the need for programs that address the diverse needs of children with special needs and their families. These programs should integrate financial support, inclusive and specialized education, skill and talent development, and community collaboration. Initiatives such as therapy services, specialized classrooms, trained teachers, and skill-development programs in music, arts, and vocational training were identified as crucial for fostering independence, confidence, and social inclusion. The findings underscore the importance of holistic, multi-dimensional support systems that empower both children and their families. Effective interventions extend beyond educational programs to include social, financial, and community-based resources that strengthen family resilience and promote inclusive development. Keywords: resilience, caregiving, inclusion, empowerment