Stress among Parents of Children with Hearing Loss and How They Deal with It: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction Parenting a child with hearing loss may be accompanied by high stress levels and several challenges. Objectives The present systematic review was performed to compile the existing literature pertaining to parental stress in parents of children with hearing loss and coping strategies. Data synthesis The databases searched include PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Cumulative Index to Nursing, and Allied Health Literature. The systematic review was designed and performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement guidelines. The screening for studies was performed independently by two researchers. Methodological quality appraisal was done using the Mixed methods appraisal tool. Twenty-eight studies were identified and included in the present review, which discussed the stress factors and coping mechanism associated with having child with hearing loss reported by parents. The factors leading to stress were thematically classified into parent/family-related factors, child-related factors, and professionals/service-related factors. The coping strategies were thematically classified into improved support systems and better professional resources. Conclusion The present systematic review was an attempt at exploring the various stress causing factors among parents of children with hearing loss. The various coping strategies would help in better planning services for these parents and helping to lessen the stress.

Parenting Stress in Mothers of Children with Permanent Hearing Impairment

“…Hearing loss can affect a child’s language acquisition and development, which naturally occurs through significant interactions between parents and children [ 12 ]. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical steps towards the proactive management of these children due to the critical window available for auditory brain development and language acquisition [ 14 ].…”

“…Various studies have shown the influence of stress on parents who have deaf or hard-of-hearing children in terms of both practical and emotional involvement [ 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. On the other hand, variables such as poorer social-emotional functioning and the language ability of the child are related to higher stress levels in parents more than the degree of hearing loss [ 13 ].…”

Navigating Silence: A Comprehensive Review of Parental Roles in the Rehabilitation of Children with Hearing Loss

“…To effectively address these challenges, implementing coping strategies is paramount. Gunjawate et al emphasize the importance of resilience-building interventions, fostering peer support networks, and providing accessible resources [28]. These initiatives empower parents with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the intricate challenges associated with their child's hearing loss.…”