Social-environmental characteristics (family climate) and sense of coherence in kibbutz families with disabled and non-disabled children

Family climate and sense of coherence were studied among two groups of Israeli kibbutz families: (a) 67 pairs of parents of disabled children and (b) 60 pairs of parents of nondisabled children. Significant differences were found between the two groups concerning profiles of family climate and the sense of coherence. Parents of the disabled children demonstrated a lower sense of coherence than the control group, were less satisfied with their lives and experienced more conflict. Family systems were less cohesive, and less encouraging of personal growth. Sense of coherence related to the familial quality of relations for all parent groups, although fathers of disabled children were particularly aware of reduced opportunities for personal growth. Findings suggested when major resources were provided by the community, the 'tragic crisis' was expressed in two aspects of the family climate: interrelations within the family system; and opportunities for personal growth. Intervention planning should consider these aspects.