The self-directed learning experience of mothers whose child has had a paediatric stroke

This study employed qualitative research methodology to explore the experiences of mothers who self-directed their learning following their child’s stroke diagnosis. Paediatric stroke, although rare, is among the top 10 causes of death in children in the USA, but information about the cause, treatment and long-term impact are difficult to find. Parents struggle to locate resources to help them understand the significance of the stroke, and little research has been conducted to help them identify what to expect as their child grows and develops. Seven women whose children had suffered a stroke participated in individual interviews about their experience for this study. The findings reveal how efforts to learn independently can be challenged by a dearth of information and resources, and how parental roles may change as a result. Mothers shared how they became a subject matter expert and a partner with their physician in terms of decision-making. They also discussed how their learning was continuous, an unremitting process based on each new health challenge that resulted from the stroke. One of the most significant findings is how important facilitators and human resources can be to the success of self-directed learning efforts, especially during a medical crisis.