Effectiveness of group training program relevant to stress management on the quality of life and its dimensions using a cognitive- behavioral approach in mothers of children with Autism

Abstract Introduction: Children with autism may experience unique adverse effects, which result in social restrictions and high stress in the parents, especially the mother. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of group training program relevant to stress management on improvement of quality of life and its dimensions (mental health, physical health, social adjustment, and environmental health) in the mothers of children diagnosed with autism in educational centers in Ahwaz. Materials & Methods: This research is a quasi-experimental kind of study with both pre-test and post-test stages. The research sample consisted of 24 mothers of children with autism. The sample was selected using available sampling method. Randomly the individuals in the sample were categorized into two experimental and control groups. The research tool was Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS), Demographic Check List of World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BRFEF). The experimental group participated in 8 sessions of group training program whose duration lasted for 2 hours. Then, they were assesses by the Quality of Life Questionnaire. Then, the data were analyzed by analysis of covariance using SPSS software version 16. Results: The results indicated that group-training program relevant to stress management has positive effects on quality of life and its dimensions (including physical health, mental health and social communication) in mothers of children with autism. However, this program had no effect on improvement of environmental health, which is one dimension of quality of life. Conclusion: Group-training program relevant to stress management is effective on improving the quality of life of mothers of children with autism by increasing their knowledge and controlling the stressful situations. Keywords: Group training program, Stress management, Cognitive – behavioral approach, Quality of life, Mothers, Autism.