Looking in From the Outside: Perspectives of Caring for an Individual Diagnosed with Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum

  • Julie A. Delello
  • Rochell R. McWhorter
Keywords: Disabilities, agenesis of the corpus callosum, family support, care experiences, social problems.

Abstract

Agenesis of the corpus callosum (AgCC) is a rare condition in which the neural connection between the left and right hemispheres of the brain is missing. This descriptive phenomenological study included the voices of 82 individuals, spanning three countries, who were identified as family members and caregivers of individuals diagnosed with AgCC, and three adults diagnosed with AgCC living independently. Analysis of the data revealed there was a lack of information about the disorder to support families and health professionals. Results of the study provide insight into the financial struggles, relationship issues, and the hopes for the future through the lived experiences of the participants. There is an undeniable impact upon families of individuals born with disabilities. As the number of individuals with AgCC continues to escalate due to improved medical techniques, proactive problem-solving for children and adults with AgCC must be considered.

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Author Biographies

Julie A. Delello

Ph.D.
Department of Education and Psychology, The University of Texas at Tyler
3900 University Blvd., BEP 235, Tyler, TX, USA 75799
Ph: 903.566.7489 | Email: jdelello@uttyler.edu ORCID: 0000-0002-4326-8096

Rochell R. McWhorter

Ph.D.
Department of Human Resource Development, The University of Texas at Tyler 3900 University Blvd., HPR 226, Tyler, TX, USA 75799 ph: 903.566.7330 | Email: rmcwhorter@uttyler.edu ORCID: 0000-0003-2053-1610

Published
2017-03-31
How to Cite
A. Delello, J., & McWhorter, R. R. (2017). Looking in From the Outside: Perspectives of Caring for an Individual Diagnosed with Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum. IJRDO - Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research, 2(3), 33-56. https://doi.org/10.53555/sshr.v2i3.598