Raising a child with a physical disability can be increasing difficult on a family. The job of raising a child is usually left to the responsibility of the mother. “Women have the greatest responsibility for the family, including children and elder care.” (Mullaly, 20007)
Raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder or Autism is no easy task. According to a study done at Washington State University, three out of five mothers that have a child with Autism does not compete in the workforce. Washington State University (2010, June 23).
“Autism Spectrum Disorder, also referred to as autism, is a neurological disorder which causes developmental disability. Autism affects the way the brain functions, resulting in difficulties with communication and social interaction, and unusual patterns of behaviour, activities and interests.” (Autism Society of Canada, 2009)
The study also concluded that out of the 326 families that were a part of the study, just over half of the mothers have a decreased workload, and close to 60% of the families had financial problems. Researchers also found that mothers had to deal with extra doctor’s appointments and had deal with conflicts at daycares and schools more often then not.
Feminism is meant to give women a sense of empowerment and give her a sense of worth. Raising a child with a physical disability such as autism, where the child can have mood swings and sometimes get aggressive, it isn’t always easy to find a daycare equipped to meet those special needs. Mothers will always do what is best for their child, and if that means staying at home and not competing in the workforce, it is done for the sake of their child.
References
Mullaly,Bob. (2007) The New Structural Social Work. Third Edition, Oxford University Press
Washington State University (2010, June 23). Mothers of children with autism pay price in workplace. ScienceDaily. Retrieved December 11, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com /releases/2010/06/100623085725.htm
Autism Society of Canada (2009) Ten Common Questions. Date Retrieved December 11, 2010, from http://www.autismsocietycanada.ca/general_info/ten_common_questions/index_e.html
Jordan
I think mother's love matters, when it comes to child and work. I think most mothers will choose their child because they are everything to them. and child are future of our world no matter they have disabilities or not because they need caring from parents...I hope government should have more support for single mother who has a child with disabilities because these mothers are contribute Canada's future and they need help the most
ReplyDeleteSarah
I have babysat for a few families who have children with autism. While I did not run into severe problems, it was much more challenging than babysitting children who are not affected by autism simply because the behaviour was much less dramatic and communication was easier. I could see the look on the mothers face when I would come over, she was thrilled that she would be able to go get a coffee for an hour and read a book in silence. When she returned she looked ready for the rest of her day even if it ended in a meltdown. I agree with Sarah, but I think the government already has some really good supports in place already for people with autism(winnipeg especially). but like everything issue we face in Canada the government could always do more. Do they have all the money, time and resources is the question.
ReplyDeleteJennilee M.