Environmental Influence on (In) dependence of a Blind Child: A Family Perspective

Abstract

Objective: Understand, from a family perspective, how the environments where a blind child lives influence his or her (in) dependence. Method: A qualitative study was conducted during the second half of 2011 with ten mothers of blind children who were attending a supplementary education center for the visually impaired. The data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews and examined through thematic analysis. Interpretation: A blind child´s potential for independence is greater in the home environment. There, the child performs his or her daily activities without assistance. As for the atmosphere at conventional schools, the family indicated blindness can jeopardize blind children’s teaching and learning process and their schooling. The family is organized to help the child with homework so he/she can keep up with the others in school. However, the family said these children are discriminated against at school because of their blindness. Conclusions: Home and school environments are support systems and influence human independence. Accordingly, they need to be reconsidered and reorganized to favor the blind child. It is the responsibility of nurses to provide the family and school professionals with proper guidance. This includes training the blind child in self-care, mobility and to function socially, so as to make their interdependence possible.