| Research on families of children with autism has focused on correlations between a family member's perception of the stressor, their emotional well-being/adjustment, and their personal resources (Bebko, Konstantareas, & Springer, 1987; Dunn, Burbine, Bowers, & Tantleff-Dunn, 2001; Bristol, 1987; Freeman, Perry & Factor, 1990; Gill & Harris, 1992; Henderson & Vandenberg, 1992; Milgram & Atzil, 1988). This study used hierarchical regression analysis to investigate the mediating effects of perceptions and coping between personal resources and emotional well-being in order to understand the interrelationship among these variables. Results indicated that the amount of control mothers felt over their situations significantly predicted levels of stress, and perceptions of parenting mediated that relationship. As mothers felt more in control they had less concerns about parenting, which in turn reduced their stress. These results suggest the need for parent training, respite, cognitive behavioral therapy and estate planning to increase control and decrease parenting concerns. |
