The Relation of Positive Contribution between Support and Quality of Life for Family with 1-6 Aged Children of Intellectual Disability in the Rural and Urban Areas of Chongqing, China

Shulan ZENG

Doctoral thesis

The Relation of Positive Contribution between Support and Quality of Life for Familiy with 1-6 Aged Children of Intellectual Disability in the Rural and Urban Areas of Chongqing, China

Abstract:

This study examines the dynamics of support systems, positive contributions, and quality of life among 204 families raising children with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Chongqing, China, supplemented by in-depth interviews with eight parents. The results are as follows: Formal support systemsincluding institutional services and policy-driven assistancewere found to be more accessible than informal social networks, although both remain insufficiently developed. While formal support showed a significant correlation with improved family quality of life, informal networks were deemed indispensable for emotional resilience and community integration. Families demonstrated moderately high levels of positive adaptation, with caregivers prioritizing familial love and responsibility, and reporting notable growth in resilience and family cohesion. Quality of life also emerged at a moderately high level, with dimensions ranked as Family Interaction > Parent-Child Bonding > Physical/Mental Health > Career Development > Economic Status > Professional Support > Leisure Activities > External Social Support. Parents derived greater fulfillment from dynamic family relationships but faced limited opportunities for personal leisure and broader social engagement. Urban-rural disparities emerged as critical determinants of family experiences, with urban households benefiting disproportionately from socioeconomic resources, inclusive policies, and employment opportunities compared to their rural counterparts. Key predictors of quality of life include geographic location, parental employment status, educational attainment, income levels, severity of the child's disability. These factors interact dynamically, highlighting systemic inequities that demand comprehensive and context-sensitive interventions. The study advocates for policy reforms that integrate formal support structures with grassroots community networks, address rural-urban resource gaps, and promote broader societal acceptance of disabilities. By prioritizing inclusive economic initiatives, equitable service distribution, and public awareness campaigns, stakeholders can foster environments in which families of children with ID not only endure but thrive holistically. These findings underscore the importance of shifting caregiving narratives beyond adversity to acknowledge and celebrate the adaptive strengths and contributions of these families.

Abstract:

This study examines the dynamics of support systems, positive contributions, and quality of life among 204 families raising children with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Chongqing, China, supplemented by in-depth interviews with eight parents. The results are as follows: Formal support systemsincluding institutional services and policy-driven assistancewere found to be more accessible than informal social networks, although both remain insufficiently developed. While formal support showed a significant correlation with improved family quality of life, informal networks were deemed indispensable for emotional resilience and community integration. Families demonstrated moderately high levels of positive adaptation, with caregivers prioritizing familial love and responsibility and reporting notable growth in resilience and family cohesion. Quality of life also emerged at a moderately high level, with dimensions ranked as Family Interaction > Parent-Child Bonding > Physical/Mental Health > Career Development > Economic Status > Professional Support > Leisure Activities > External Social Support. Parents derived greater fulfillment from dynamic family relationships but faced limited opportunities for personal leisure and broader social engagement. Urban-rural disparities emerged as critical determinants of family experiences, with urban households benefiting disproportionately from socioeconomic resources, inclusive policies, and employment opportunities compared to their rural counterparts. Key predictors of quality of life include geographic location, parental employment status, educational attainment, income levels, and severity of the child's disability. These factors interact dynamically, highlighting systemic inequities that demand comprehensive and context-sensitive interventions. The study advocates for policy reforms that integrate formal support structures with grassroots community networks, address rural-urban resource gaps, and promote broader societal acceptance of disabilities. By prioritizing inclusive economic initiatives, equitable service distribution, and public awareness campaigns, stakeholders can foster environments in which families of children with ID not only endure but thrive holistically. These findings underscore the importance of shifting caregiving narratives beyond adversity to acknowledge and celebrate the adaptive strengths and contributions of these families.

Keywords

Support, Positive contributions, Quality of life, Children with Intellectual disability, China

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 12. 6. 2025

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: prof. PhDr. PaedDr. Miloň Potměšil, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Education

Doctoral programme / field:
Special Education / Special Education