Measuring the Level of Self-Satisfaction among Parents of Children with Special Needs

Abstract

The objective of this study is to assess the level of self-satisfaction among parents of children with special needs, and to determine this level based on the variables of gender, age, and educational attainment. The study population comprised parents of children with special needs in the center of Chamchamal district. A purposive random sample of (103) parents was selected, consisting of (61) mothers and (42) fathers. To achieve the study's objectives, the researchers adopted a descriptive-analytical approach. The research instrument consisted of a 13-item questionnaire, which was administered after establishing its psychometric properties. Appropriate statistical tools were subsequently utilized for data presentation, analysis, and interpretation.

The study yielded the following results:

·         Overall Level: The level of self-satisfaction among parents of children with special needs was not statistically significant, with the calculated T-value being (0.815) compared to the tabulated T-value of (2.023).

·         Gender Variable: No statistically significant differences were found in the level of self-satisfaction based on gender, as the calculated T-value was (1.557) against the tabulated T-value of (2.023).

·         Age Variable: No statistically significant differences were observed regarding the age variable.

·         Educational Attainment Variable: A statistically significant difference was detected in favor of educated parents, who obtained a mean score of (42.327), whereas the mean score for illiterate parents was (41.119).

     In light of these findings, the study put forward several recommendations, including: establishing a free psychological support and counseling center for parents in Chamchamal district, providing dedicated salaries or financial aid to alleviate the financial burden on parents, organizing specialized seminars for parents regarding proper child upbringing, and encouraging relevant authorities to offer enhanced services to this segment of society.