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Profiles of family needs of children and youth with cerebral palsy
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Profiles of family needs of children and youth with cerebral palsy

N. Almasri, R. J. Palisano, C. Dunst, L. A. Chiarello, M. E. O'Neil and M. Polansky
Child : care, health & development, v 38(6), pp 798-806
01 Nov 2012
PMID: 22035403

Abstract

Life Sciences & Biomedicine Pediatrics Psychology Psychology, Developmental Science & Technology Social Sciences
Background To identify profiles of family needs of families of children and youth with cerebral palsy (CP), and determine whether profile membership is related to child, family and service characteristics. Methods Participants were mostly mothers (80%) of 579 children and youth with CP. A family member completed modified version of the Family Needs Survey and questionnaires about their child, family and services. Research assistants determined the Gross Motor Function Classification System levels. K-means cluster analysis identified profiles of needs. Cluster membership was analysed to examine differences in clusters based on selected characteristics. Results Four profiles of needs were identified: Low needs, Needs related to community and financial resources, Needs related to child health condition and High needs. Profile membership was differentiated based on child/youth gross motor function, adaptive behaviour, family relationships, family income, access and effort to co-ordinate services. Conclusion Despite heterogeneity among individuals with CP and their families, four profiles of family needs were identified. In total, 51% of families had low needs suggesting that they are effectively managing their children's health conditions while 11% of families had high needs that may require high levels of services and supports. Service providers are encouraged to partner with families, provide anticipatory guidance and co-ordinate services.

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32 citations in Scopus

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UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This publication has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:

#3 Good Health and Well-Being

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Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
International collaboration
Web of Science research areas
Pediatrics
Psychology, Developmental
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