The Social Coping Experiences of a Female Child with Arthrogryposis Multitplex Congenita Shared by her Parents

Abstract

Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, commonly referred to as AMC, is a disorder recognised by multiple contractures of the joints. The symptoms associated with the disorder span across various levels of severity. Regardless of the physical problems, however, intelligence remains undisturbed. The aim of this paper is centred on investigating the social coping experiences of a child living with this condition, adopting a qualitative approach to the research. A case study design was adopted for the research, with the theoretical framework applied known as Phenomenology. One sample was used for the data collection, notably a child diagnosed with Arthrogryposis, with her coping experiences shared by her parents. When examining the data, thematic analysis was applied.  This study has significance in the fact it seeks to develop an understanding of children living with this condition, as well as for the disabled child population as a whole. The key issues seen to arise from this study include the role of social relationships, the role of the parent in socialisation, and the perceptions of others concerning AMC.