Abstract
Introduction Parenting a child with hearing loss may be accompanied by high stress levels and
several challenges.
Objectives The present systematic review was performed to compile the existing literature pertaining
to parental stress in parents of children with hearing loss and coping strategies.
Data synthesis The databases searched include PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Cumulative
Index to Nursing, and Allied Health Literature. The systematic review was designed
and performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses
statement guidelines. The screening for studies was performed independently by two
researchers. Methodological quality appraisal was done using the Mixed methods appraisal
tool. Twenty-eight studies were identified and included in the present review, which
discussed the stress factors and coping mechanism associated with having child with
hearing loss reported by parents. The factors leading to stress were thematically
classified into parent/family-related factors, child-related factors, and professionals/service-related
factors. The coping strategies were thematically classified into improved support
systems and better professional resources.
Conclusion The present systematic review was an attempt at exploring the various stress causing
factors among parents of children with hearing loss. The various coping strategies
would help in better planning services for these parents and helping to lessen the
stress.
Keywords
hearing loss - parents - children - stress - coping mechanism
