Presenter
Breanna Mendell, OT/S
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2024
Abstract
Research suggests a lack of support for parents of children diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions. Receiving a neurodivergent diagnosis can impact both the child and their caregiver’s mental health and well-being. Implementation of parent-to-parent support groups for caregivers of children with neurodivergent conditions have been found to reduce stress and anxiety. The more educated a parent is regarding their child’s diagnosis, the better they can effectively support and advocate for their child. This can create a reduction in stress and anxiety. Groups also provide a space for caretakers to empathize, express their emotions, and share the skills and knowledge they have. The Lark Center offers a variety of therapeutic pediatric services but currently has not been able to integrate caregiver support groups into their services. In collaboration with the Lark Center, this capstone project aimed to create parent-to-parent support groups for caregivers at the outpatient clinic. Groups ran for an hour, once a week for eight weeks. The aim was to provide support, resources, and community for caregivers. Outcomes focused on a stress reduction and increased well-being for participants. These outcomes were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale and an open-ended survey, administered during the first session and last session. Ultimately this project hopes to serve as a sustainable protocol for best-practices regarding parental caregiver support across settings.
Faculty Mentor
Tania Rosa, O.T.D., OTR/L
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Mendell, Breanna, "Parent-to-Parent Support Groups" (2024). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 135.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/135