A qualitative narrative transcendental-phenomenological study was conducted to explore the lived experiences and coping strategies of parents in California raising children with development disorders (DDs). Twenty parents of children with Prader-Willi syndrome, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, or autism spectrum disorder were interviewed to explore their perceptions of stress and coping strategies. The theoretical framework consisted of Lavee, McCubbin, and Patterson's (1985) double ABCX model of family adaptation. The theoretical framework and methodology were used to discover two variables: (1) how parents perceive stressful events and (2) how parents acquire resources. Interview data collected resulted in seven themes: (1) excessive stress, (2) stages of grief, (3) lack of sufficient support, (4) professional input, (5) coping strategies, (6) empowerment, and (7) improvement of quality of life. The themes suggested the need for change in how governmental, medical, educational, and insurance company leaders provide support to parents who care for their child with a DD at home. The findings of this study could help to close the gap between understanding parental stress related to DDs and how parental stress affects communities. The findings could also help improve how parents of children with DDs acquire and use information to reduce stress and increase use of effective parenting strategies. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]