The investigation of opinions of mothers of children with hearing loss on their needs and supports regarding their children

The aim of this study is to investigate the opinions of mothers of children with hearing loss about their needs and support regarding their children. The study is designed as a descriptive case study. The participants of the study are 11 mothers of children with hearing loss children, and all of the mothers are primary caregivers. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews, the researcher's journal and document analysis. Descriptive analysis technique was used for the analysis of the data. Mothers' needs related to their children were categorized under the following titles: informational, educational, psychosocial, financial and anticipated needs. It is also revealed that the families receive support from their acquaintances, experts, internet, government and other families of children with hearing loss children. For their needs, mothers mostly expect the government to raise financial support. Mothers' suggestions relating their needs are mostly focused on other families of children with hearing loss. It can be said that the need for information is closely related with other needs, and when the information need is met, it would automatically fulfill some of the other needs. The accessibility of experts, among other informational sources, is considered important.