Coping and Defense Mechanisms of Mothers of Learning Disabled Children

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the ways in which mothers of learning disabled children cope with and defend against the diagnosis and manifestations of their child's problem, as well as to explore the mothers' reactions and experience with the process of diagnosis and treatment in a clinic setting. Results indicated that the mothers generally evidenced coping mechanisms when involved with medical, social and educational agencies, and were able to appropriately obtain services for their child. However, coping functions broke down and gave way to more defensive mechanisms in direct confrontation with the child: projection, denial of the problem and displacement of anger on to the child were seen. Mothers, contrary to traditional attitudes, experienced relief at receiving a diagnosis, confirming their suspicions rather than experiencing shock or grief.