When Allergies Take a Backseat: Interpreting the Experiences of Mothers of Teenaged Children with Life-threatening Food Allergies

Authors

  • Dr. Karen Ann Dobbin-Williams Memorial University of Newfoundland School of Nursing

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55016/ojs/jah.v2024Y2024.79827

Abstract

In this paper, I report on my doctoral study exploring the experiences of mothers of teenagers with life-threatening food allergies. Using the metaphor of a car in motion as mothers navigate this time with their children, I offer some deepened understanding of this topic: going forwards while looking backwards; allergies taking a backseat; and the teenager taking the wheel. Expectations of mothers and the roles that mothers take on are explored in this interpretive inquiry guided by Gadamerian philosophical hermeneutics.

Author Biography

  • Dr. Karen Ann Dobbin-Williams, Memorial University of Newfoundland School of Nursing

    Karen Dobbin-Williams, RN, PhD is an Assistant Professor at Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty of Nursing. Her areas of research interest are the experiences of individuals with chronic medical conditions such as life-threatening food allergies and diabetes, mothering experiences and maternal theory, and gamification in undergraduate nursing education. She is a lifelong student of hermeneutics.

     

Published

2024-08-14

Issue

Section

Articles