GRATITUDE OF MOTHERS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to understand the feelings of gratitude experienced by mothers who have children with special needs (Gratitude of Mothers with Autistic Children). Exploring the role of being a mother to a child with special needs reveals not only the negative impacts on the mother's psychological well-being but also the potential positive effects, such as feelings of gratitude. Gratitude reflects the inclination to respond with thankfulness for the kindness and the roles of others in positive achievements in one's life. The research method used is a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. The sampling technique employed is purposive sampling, involving four subjects and one informant, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews and non-participant observations. The study's findings indicate that three subjects experienced feelings of gratitude while fulfilling their role as mothers to children with special needs. The first subject felt grateful, considering the presence of their child as the greatest blessing. The second subject felt grateful for their child's achievements in regular school. For the third subject, the presence of their child encouraged them to view life from a more positive perspective. The informant regarded every development of their child as a source of gratitude. The research also found that feelings of gratitude made mothers with children with special needs become more patient and creative, experiencing positive emotions such as happiness and pride, having the motivation to learn and understand their child's condition, and enjoying life more. Additionally, the study also found that social support can influence the feelings of gratitude in these mothers.
