THE PARENTS' REACTION TO THE BIRTH AND EARLY CARE OF CHILDREN WITH CLEFT PALATE

Abstract

From the beginning the life experiences of the baby born with cleft palate and cleft lip are different from those of normal infants. Following a discussion of the nature of the initial feeding difficulties, some parental anxieties related to the babies' malformation are enumerated. The birth of a congenitally damaged baby is experienced as a grievous loss by the mother. The length, depth, and nature of the resolution of her mourning reaction influences significantly the mother-child relationship. The key position of the medical doctor in relieving parental anxieties and alleviating grief is emphasized. His emotional understanding and continued support play an important part in the development of a relaxed and accepting parent-child relationship.