Family relationships and daily life among Saudi mothers caring for children with down syndrome: A qualitative study

Abstract

This study aims to investigate “Family Relationships and Daily Life” as the core theme that forms the central focus of understanding the experiences of Saudi mothers caring for children with Down syndrome within the local social and cultural context, thereby addressing a knowledge gap related to caregiving conditions and their familial, psychological, and social implications. A qualitative design was employed, using a purposive sample of fifteen Saudi mothers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews that explored family interactions and daily experiences, and thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring patterns and meanings. The findings confirmed the centrality of this core theme through the emergence of two sub-themes that illustrated its dimensions: “Social Interactions and Familial Emotional Influences” and “Family Stability and Pathways to Emotional Reassurance.” The results also revealed that caregiving responsibilities led, on the one hand, to pressures and family tensions, while on the other hand they fostered closeness and mutual support. The study concludes that family relationships and daily routines constitute the foundation for mothers’ adaptation to caregiving responsibilities. These findings provide a scientific basis for recommendations and interventions that are responsive to the cultural and social specificities of Saudi society, offering practical implications for the development of supportive programs and policies.