Experiences of mothers of adolescents with intellectual disabilities: a study on the intersection of race, gender, and social class

Abstract

The present study aims to discuss the intersection of gender, race, and social class among mothers of adolescents with intellectual disabilities, in order to strengthen the debate on public policies regarding the health actions necessary to ensure equity, by recognizing and making visible the multiple dimensions of vulnerability present in these contexts. This qualitative study conducted was with 12 mothers of adolescents with intellectual disabilities who were receiving care at a specialized outpatient child and adolescent mental health service. Data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews using a semistructured guide. Data analysis was performed using Iramuteq software and Bardin’s Content Analysis. Most women are Black, have low household incomes provided through public policies, and assume full responsibility for raising their children. The results were grouped into four distinct categories: experiences of racism, prejudice, and stigma related to disability and the role of public policies; everyday life narratives; parental relationships, dependency, and future perspectives; and the path to diagnosis. The study found that these mothers face a challenging reality in which mechanisms that sustain oppression are perpetuated in a scenario marked by multiple dimensions of vulnerability.