Parenting stress in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this paper is to describe the sources of parenting stress in mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and examine the relationship between parenting stress and maternal psychological status (depression and well-being).


METHODS
A descriptive correlational design was used. Data were collected via mailed questionnaires.


RESULTS
Behavioral symptoms were the primary source of parenting stress for mothers. There was no relationship between child characteristics and parenting stress. Mothers reporting more parenting stress had more depressive symptoms and lower levels of well-being.


CONCLUSIONS
Our findings have implications for interventions with mothers to help them manage their children's behavior and focus on stress reduction and well-being.
Phetrasuwan
Supapak
S
Faculty of Nursing, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand. supapakp@swu.ac.th
Shandor Miles
Margaret
M
D000328:Adult; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000209:etiology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires