Heliyon (May 2024)

The role of women in the field of early intervention

  • Gabriel Martínez-Rico,
  • Julia Argente-Tormo,
  • Joana Calero-Plaza,
  • Rómulo J. González-García

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10, no. 10
p. e31571

Abstract

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This study examines the intersection of early intervention and the role of women as primary caregivers for children with disabilities. Studies for this analysis were collected through a meticulous search in the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases. This process ensured the inclusion of a wide range of relevant literature from the field of study. A rigorous procedure of identification, selection, eligibility assessment, and inclusion of potentially relevant studies in this research area was conducted. We analyzed 130 articles, identifying 8 key research areas. Significant factors include the impact on parental interactions, communication skills, the role of women in developmental disabilities, mothers' understanding of their children's disabilities, emotional overload, parental stress, and psychological aspects. These factors significantly affect the well-being and development of mothers and children with disabilities. The study also considers the impact on women's careers. While research on psychological aspects and maternal overload is well-developed, establishing early intervention systems to optimize resources for proper child development is a challenge. The findings have high social value, paving the way for improving the quality of early childhood services.

Keywords