A STUDY TO ASSESS THE EFFICIENCY OF SKILL TRAINING ON EMPOWERMENT OF TEENAGER CARE SKILLS AMONG THE MOTHERS OF MENTALLY CHALLENGED CHILDREN IN SELECTED MENTALLY RETARDED CONSERVATORIES OF VADODARA, GUJARAT

Abstract

Caring for mentally challenged children, particularly during adolescence, poses significant physical, emotional, and social challenges. Mothers, as primary caregivers, often shoulder the responsibility, yet they may lack appropriate training to manage complex care needs. Empowerment through skill training is crucial in strengthening caregiving efficacy, psychosocial resilience, and quality of life for both mothers and their children.

Intellectual disability, commonly referred to as mental retardation, is a significant developmental condition characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, affecting conceptual, social, and practical skills. According to global estimates, nearly 1–3% of the population is affected by some form of intellectual disability, with a substantial proportion residing in low- and middle-income countries such as India. Advances in healthcare have increased life expectancy among children with intellectual disabilities, leading to a growing population of adolescents who require long-term, specialized care within families and institutions.