Structured Pattern for Prediction of Parental Stress Based on Self-Differentiation of Parents With Mediating Role of Family Performance With Autistic Child

Introduction: According to studies, raising a normal child is already a difficult task for parents. Now, imagine how hard it could be to raise an autistic child. Based on family stress theory, persona, and family resources are considered as main elements which may have effects on the relationship between having an autistic child and positive/negative parenting consequences. The present study aimed to evaluate parental stress modeling based on parents’ differentiation of self and mediating role of family performance with their autistic child. This was a correlational study based on structural equations modeling. Materials and Methods: Statistical population consisted all mothers of autistic children who were studying in the autistic schools in Tehran. In this research, 250 mothers with autistic children were selected by convenience sampling method based on Lohlin method for sample size (2004). Then they were evaluated by multidimensional scale of differentiation of self inventory-revised, family assessment device, and parental stress index-short form. The obtained data were analyzed in SPSS 24 and AMOS 23.Results: Based on the findings, three variables could predict parental stress (R2=0.51) and 51% of parental stress are explained by parents’ differentiation of self as well as family performance. Also, the indirect way of parents’ differentiation of self with mediating role of family performance on parental stress was supported. Conclusion: Focusing on self-differentiation as well as family performance and emphasizing on parental stress of mothers with autistic children and training coping strategies may have significant effects on decreasing the stress and vulnerability of these parents.