Positive change and sense of coherence in Japanese mothers of children with congenital appearance malformation.

The purpose of this study was to clarify the factors related to perceived positive change and sense of coherence in mothers ( = 293) of children with cleft lip and palate. The strongest negative correlation with sense of coherence was stigmatizing words from others; there were positive correlations with social capital and perceived positive change. Multiple regression showed that to be aware of positive changes, mothers share their feelings with mothers in the same position, are rooted in a safe community and do not feel isolated in parenting. People who have experienced adversity may have the opportunity to enhance sense of coherence by obtaining perceived positive change.