At this phase of the research study, I am gathering research studies that address the following areas: a) types of stressors faced by families of children with disabilities; b) the experiences of mothers who care for children with disabilities; and c) the coping resources and strategies of families of children with disabilities (Little, 1999; Bristol, 1984; Hassiotis, 1997; Moes, Koegel, Schreibman, & Loos, 1992; Margalit, Raviv, & Ankonina, 1992; Tarakeshwar & Pargament, 2001). It is important to note that the research studies that will most likely be covered in the dissertation will primarily involve families of children with autism or Asperger's syndrome. This comprehensive research process will not only provide me with a context for evaluating my research study, but also help me determine how I can contribute to this area of study.
Unlike any of these research studies I have reviewed, I will be using a phenomenological approach to obtain the personal narratives of the mothers of children with autism. Using a semi-structured interview format, I will be interviewing six mothers of children with autism. These questions will cover the following topics: a) the specific stressors they face; b) their coping strategies; c) social support from families, friends and professionals; and d) suggestions of coping strategies and resources.
In choosing to use the phenomenological approach for this study, I have begun to engage in extensive research on the use of this method. Through this process, I have become increasingly aware of the appropriateness of this research method for the investigation of my topic for two primary reasons. First, in contrast to conventional research approaches, the phenomenological approach is premised on the idea that individuals' day-to-day existence and their subjective experiences can be used as scientific evidence. Instead of limiting the research by using selected variables or imposin
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