Estrategias de afrontamiento de las familias con integrantes con discapacidad

Abstract

The social, economic, and cultural dynamics of families with members with disabilities have shaped caregivers' ability to structure strategies for coping with this condition. This is due to the limited institutional presence, the family's economic situation, and the strong community cohesion, which builds a new lifestyle in the face of the challenges they face with disabilities. The research aims to analyze the coping strategies of families with members with disabilities in the San José de Huambaló Foundation. The study is exploratory, descriptive, and explanatory. It uses a quantitative methodology based on the development of a questionnaire comprised of six dimensions: family restructuring, support from friends and family, spiritual support, formal support, support from neighbors, and passive evaluation. Data collection was carried out through fieldwork, in which 50 families in the San José de Huambaló Foundation were surveyed. The conclusions were determined: the informal support network is the immediate family, and the formal support network is comprised of healthcare professionals and even a religious leader for guidance. Furthermore, the families have developed problem-solvin g skills and good emotional intelligence management skills to address the challenges they face daily. The following recommendations are suggested: recognition for families or cities that support individuals with disabilities, support activities with religious institutions, integration activities, and the collection of family socioeconomic information.