A Descriptive Research on Holiday Difficulties of Families with Mentally Handicapped Children

Abstract

In order to better understand the characteristics of the disabled tourism market, which has become increasingly important all over the world and to develop appropriate marketing strategies, it is necessary to examine the different dynamics of the obstacles and their problems during their travels. In this context, the aim of the study is to determine the difficulties experienced by the families of mentally disabled individuals, who are perhaps the most disadvantaged among all types of disabilities, before and during the holidays due to internal and external factors. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the families of 17 mentally disabled individuals. As a result of the study, it was concluded that the main motivation of families for the holiday is the happiness of their children, that the holiday is an important tool in relieving them from daily stress and anxiety, and that almost all families experience similar problems.