The centrality of healthcare and education interactions – An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis of experiences of parents of children with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Background

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a rare group of connective tissue disorders and, as such, the diagnosis can often be delayed. While emerging research indicates that there may be adverse psychosocial consequences for the child, little is known about the processes behind such outcomes, including the psychosocial impact of this rare disease on family life.

Aims

To extend our understanding, we examined the lived experiences of parenting a child with EDS.

Methods

Four parents recruited from a specialist child development clinic participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Results

Three superordinate themes were identified: (1) Challenges Associated with hEDS, (2) Interactions with Professionals and (3) “Pulling and Pacing”: Life with EDS.

Discussion

This is one of the first qualitative studies to gain an insight into the lived experiences of parenting a child with EDS. Findings had systemic implications. Specifically, we demonstrate the need for raising awareness in health and educational professionals about how to better support families to support the child, as well as the importance of promoting effective advocacy skills in parents.