Conceptualising a parent guidance programme in support of children with colour vision deficiency

Abstract

In South Africa, limited research has been conducted that focuses on colour vision deficiency (CVD) or the experiences of children with this condition. My study forms part of a broader research initiative that aims to add knowledge to this emerging field of interest. More specifically, the purpose of my study was to explore how parents of children with CVD understand their children’s visual condition, and to describe the challenges they believe their children face and the strategies that can be used to support these children. I subsequently aimed to conceptualise a parent guidance programme in support of children with CVD. The theoretical framework of my study is based on the revised model of parental involvement by Hoover-Dempsey and Sandler (2005). Methodologically, I selected a case study design, qualitative approach and interpretivist epistemological paradigm. I conveniently and purposefully selected twelve parent-participants whose children with CVD participated in a fellow PhD student’s research study. For data generation and documentation, I utilised semi-structured interviews, audio techniques, observation, field notes and a reflective journal. The data was analysed inductively, following a thematic data analysis approach. The identified themes relate to parents’ understanding of their children’s CVD, the challenges parents perceive their children with CVD to experience, strategies used to support children with CVD, and parents’ needs for further guidance to support their children. The findings of this study contribute to the emerging body of knowledge on CVD, more specifically in terms of the role of parents in supporting their children with CVD, and of possible topics that can be included in a parent guidance programme. Based on the findings of the study, I can conclude that parents could benefit from receiving guidance on how to support their children with CVD. Additionally, this study underscores the significance of parental involvement in facilitating the successful functioning of children with CVD in their environment, despite their visual condition. Finally, the findings of my study emphasise the importance of continued research on this phenomenon to augment the existing knowledge base on CVD.