Mothers of primary school children with Down's syndrome. How do they experience their situation?

The occurrence of anxiety or depression, experience of social support and feelings about the family situation were evaluated in 13 mothers of children of primary school age with Down's syndrome (DS). The results were compared with those obtained in a group of 13 females engaged in taking care of these children and assisting their families. Questionnaires were used to assess feelings of depression or anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), to evaluate social support (Interview Schedule for Social Interaction) and the family situation (Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale). A semi-structured interview with the mothers was also conducted. The results indicated that negative feelings at the birth of a child with DS had almost invariably changed in a positive direction. Experience of depression or anxiety was uncommon. Social and emotional contacts were quantitatively normal, although more empathy was often desired. The families were relatively often described as enmeshed and controlled, but the experience of the family situation was generally positive.