Satisfaction of a Family which has an Individual with Intellectual Disabilities in Relation to Family Quality of Life

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess family satisfaction with two domains of family quality of life (FQOL): emotional well-being and disability-related support among families of persons with intellectual disability (ID) living in Saudi Arabia. This study also sought to determine whether families differed in their level of satisfaction by geographic region and family income, as well as whether families who were satisfied with emotional well-being were also satisfied with disability-related support. Using a quantitative survey design, family satisfaction was assessed with 74 families. Results revealed that families were moderately satisfied with emotional well-being and significantly less satisfied with disability-related support, with family provider relationship quality being rated the lowest. There were no significant differences in satisfaction by geographic region for either domain. Family income was a significant predictor of satisfaction with disability-related support, F(2, 71) = 9.98, p = .001. Post hoc tests revealed that families with high incomes were the most satisfied with disability support and families with middle incomes were the least satisfied. Satisfaction with emotional well-being and disability-related support were not significantly correlated (r = −.130, p = .27). Results highlight the need for income-sensitive, domain-specific interventions to enhance FQOL for families of individuals with ID.