Balancing Work and Family: Perspectives of Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

In an exploratory qualitative research study on balancing work and family responsibilities, four focus groups were convened to obtain the perspectives of working parents of children with developmental disabilities. Parents discussed the influence of their caregiving responsibilities on work decisions, work performance, career choices and development, and their use of informal, formal, and workplace supports. Key themes emerging from the focus- group data were discussed as well as implications for work and family policy, practice, and future research.