The meaning of adulthood for emerging adults with Down syndrome: Parent perspectives on relevant skills

Abstract

Background: Parents' conceptualizations of adulthood for their emerging adults with Down syndrome have the potential to impact the transition planning process as families prepare for life after graduation. Aims: This study aimed to explore parent perceptions of the meaning of adulthood for their emerging adults with Down syndrome. Methods: In this qualitative study, we interviewed 11 parents of emerging adults with Down syndrome using phenomenological methodology and analysed these data using thematic analysis. Results: Three topics emerged: (1) Parents' constructions of the meaning of adulthood; (2) Parents' perceptions about the transition to adulthood; and (3) Parents' perceptions of current adult life skills. Ten themes arose out of these topics. Conclusions: Parents expressed ambivalence about the meaning of adulthood for their emerging adults with Down syndrome, sharing that in some ways they were adults and in others they were not. The meaning of adulthood was closely tied to obtained skills, particularly those related to personal safety.