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Despite having the same underlying genetic etiology, individuals with the same syndromic form of intellectual developmental disability (IDD) show a large degree of interindividual differences in cognition and IQ. Research indicates that up to 80% of the variation in IQ scores among individuals with syndromic IDDs is attributable to nongenetic effects, including social-environmental factors. In this narrative review, we summarize evidence of the influence that factors related to economic stability (focused on due to its prevalence in existing literature) have on IQ in individuals with syndromic IDDs. We also highlight the pathways through which economic stability is hypothesized to impact cognitive development and drive individual differences in IQ among individuals with syndromic IDDs. We also identify broader social-environmental factors (e.g., social determinants of health) that warrant consideration in future research, but that have not yet been explored in syndromic IDDs. We conclude by making recommendations to address the urgent need for further research into other salient factors associated with heterogeneity in IQ. These recommendations ultimately may shape individual- and community-level interventions and may inform systems-level public policy efforts to promote the cognitive development of and improve the lived experiences of individuals with syndromic IDDs.

Using insights from the literature on psychology and medicine, we examine the impact of stress induced by terrorism on child sex at birth. The psychological and social stressors associated with terrorist events prior to conception may trigger changes in parental hormones that have an implication for birth outcomes. We extract data on 11,331 live births conceived between 2007 and 2012 from Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2012–2013 and match these data with household information, monthly terrorist incidents at home district, and other district-level characteristics. Our analysis shows that parental exposure to terrorism prior to conception reduces the likelihood of a male birth. We examine the birth outcome of siblings by exploiting the variation in exposure to terrorism across pregnancies for a given mother and confirm our finding. The results provide microeconomic evidence of the potential long-term impact of terrorism on population dynamics and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Empirical evidence underscores an association between parental stress and emotional and behavioral problems in offspring. However, a comprehensive systematic review or meta-analysis on this topic is lacking. Thus, this study aims to address the scientific inquiry: Is there a relationship between parental stress and emotional/behavioral problems in children? Sources This systematic review with a meta-analysis surveyed PubMed, PsycINFO, and the Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde between August and September 2021. The present search combined terms (school-age children) AND (parental stress OR parenting stress OR family stress) AND (emotional and behavioral problems OR internalizing and externalizing problems). Eligibility criteria encompassed cross-sectional, cohort, and case-control studies published within the last five years, exploring the association between parental stress (stressful life events and parenthood-related stress disorders) and emotional/behavioral problems in school-age children. PROSPERO ID CRD42022274034. Summary of the findings Of the 24 studies meeting all inclusion criteria (n = 31,183) for the systematic review, nine were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed an association between parental stress and emotional problems (COR: 0.46 [95 % CI: 0.27 - 0.61], p < 0.001, Heterogeneity = 89 %) as well as behavioral problems (COR: 0.37 [95 % CI: 0.27 - 0.46], p < 0.001, Heterogeneity = 76 %). Conclusions These findings indicate that parental stress predicts emotional/behavioral problems in school-age children. Since these problems are related to long-term negative effects in adulthood, these results are crucial for preventing mental health problems in offspring and for screening and managing parental stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study investigates the impact of financial insecurity on the mental well-being and stress levels of parents in Lebanon amid the country’s severe economic crisis. The context of Lebanon’s economic collapse, coupled with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Beirut port explosion, has exacerbated financial and psychological distress among the population. This research aims to understand the correlation between financial instability and parental stress, identifying key factors contributing to mental health challenges in this demographic. Methods: Employing a quantitative research approach, data was collected through an online survey from 785 parents from different backgrounds in Lebanon. The survey incorporated sociodemographic questions, the InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being Scale (IFDFW), and the Arabic version of the Parental Stress Scale (PSS). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25. Results: Findings showed significant correlations between high levels of parental stress and factors such as age (r = 0.071, p = 0.047) and lower education levels. Notably, refugees residing in Lebanon exhibited higher stress levels compared to Lebanese parents (mean stress score: 51.73 vs. 45.71, p < 0.001). Similarly, employed participants exhibited higher stress levels compared to the nonworking (mean stress score: 46.75 vs. 44.60, p = 0.003). A significant inverse association was found between financial well-being and parental stress (r=-0.216, p < 0.001), emphasizing the profound impact of economic instability on mental health. Conclusions: This study highlights the adverse effects of financial insecurity on parents’ mental health, primarily during a period of economic instability, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted support interventions. These findings contribute to the literature on economic crises and mental health, providing a basis for future research and policy development in similar contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on resilience helps parents promote health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and mitigate stress associated with raising a child with disabilities. Therefore, understanding how resilience works for parents to inform future interventions and services is important. However, the mutual relations among parental stress, family resilience, and parents' HRQOL for families of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have not been investigated in the literature. This study examined the associations among these three variables for these families and would benefit the parents as well as their children. A sample of 1003 parents of children with ASD reporting both parents' HRQOL from a national dataset was included in this study. This dataset surveyed parents who had a child aged 0–17 in the household in the United States. The investigated latent variables were constructed by the items selected from the survey. Results showed that parental HRQOL could be directly affected by parental stress β = − 0.19, p <.001 and family resilience, β = 0.31, p <.001. Parental stress could be directly affected by family resilience, β = − 0.29, p <.001. Parental HRQOL could be indirectly affected by family resilience through parental stress, β = 0.055, SE = 0.013, p <.001, 95% CI = 0.034 to 0.084. In conclusion, family members could rely on and share the burden and responsibility for each other to increase their family resilience, which could assist parents to reduce their parental stress and directly and through the reduction of their parental stress indirectly increase their HRQOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Parents of preterm infants face a stressful life event which might have long term impact on the parent-child relation as well as on the infant's cognitive and socio-emotional development. Both music therapy (MT) and physical contact (PC) are stress-reducing interventions for parents and preterm infants on the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Meanwhile, especially close PC is considered as standard care (SC) in most NICUs. However, the effect of live performed MT with PC on parental perceived stress and cortisol levels has barely been investigated. We hypothesized that MT with PC leads to reduced stress levels and lower salivary cortisol concentrations compared to SC in parents of preterm infants during the first 4 weeks after birth. Methods: Randomized-controlled trial enrolling the parents of 99 preterm infants (MT n = 50, SC n = 49 infants). The infants received either MT with PC or SC only. Perceived stress was measured with the perceived stress questionnaire 20 (PSQ-20) after birth and 4 weeks later. Salivary cortisol levels were obtained and measured weekly after birth for 4 weeks. Results: Forty-two mothers and eight fathers of the intervention group (MT with PC) as well as n = 43 mothers and n = 6 fathers of the control group (SC) were enrolled. For the intervention group, salivary cortisol was reduced 4 weeks after birth [mothers 5.5 nmol/l (confidence interval (CI) 3.6-7.5); fathers 8.3 (CI 7.2-9.4)] compared to the control group [mothers 10.3 nmol/l (CI 5.4-15.3); fathers 14.8 (CI 8.9-20.7)]. Overall perceived stress scores decreased in the intervention group (mothers -17.6; fathers -12.6) and increased in the control group (mothers +6.1; fathers +21.4) over 4 weeks. Discussion: Live-performed MT with PC in preterm infants might be an effective, non-invasive intervention to reduce parental stress and cortisol levels. Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of this intervention on the parent-infant relation as well as on the infants' cognitive and socio-emotional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the extensive body of evidence documenting how pandemic‐related stressors (e.g., disruptions in daily routine) impact individuals' mental health, research examining family mechanisms through which stressors impact parental stress remains insufficient. The present study aims to address this gap by exploring a moderated mediation model that predicts parental stress resulting from the accumulation of pandemic‐related stressors. Specifically, we hypothesized a second‐stage moderated mediation model in which family resilience beliefs moderated the second‐stage indirect paths through family relationships and marital satisfaction, resulting in conditional indirect effects. Study data were collected from American parents (n = 1386). There was no evidence that family relationships and marital satisfaction mediated the association between stressor pile‐up and parent stress. In addition, family resilience beliefs did not significantly impact how marital satisfaction or family relationships affect parental stress. However, marital satisfaction mediated the relationship between stressor pile‐up and parental stress across all levels of family resilience beliefs. The findings of this study carry significant implications for post‐pandemic family interventions, suggesting the incorporation of resilience belief training and stress management strategies to improve intrafamilial communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This research aims to explore parents' cognitive beliefs, specifically illness cognitions, in response to their children being diagnosed with cancer. This study is an initial step toward providing regular psychosocial assessment as a standard for psychosocial care for children with cancer and their families in Latvia. Methods: Data were collected from 120 parents (mostly mothers, n = 109) as an initial evaluation of the psychosocial risks faced by families participating in the support program "Holistic and Multidisciplinary Support for Children with Functional Disabilities and Their Family Members," which was managed by the Children's Hospital Foundation at the Children's Clinical University Hospital in Riga (Latvia) from 2020 to 2023. The patients comprised 66 boys and 54 girls (M age = 7.1, SD = 4.7, range: 0-17 years) with diverse cancer diagnoses. The parents completed the Latvian version of the Psychosocial Assessment Tool [adapted from PAT 3.1], with five subscales included in the data analysis (Social Support, Child Problems, Family Problems, Stress Reactions, and Family Beliefs). The Family Belief subscale was adjusted specifically to address the unique objectives and research questions of the current study. Results: Significant correlations were found between children's psychological problems (e.g., getting upset about medical procedures, hyperactivity, excessive use of electronic devices, etc.) and parental stress reactions after diagnosis and with self-reported symptoms of anxiety and depression. The associations were statistically significant, even after controlling for sociodemographic and medical factors such as diagnosis. The relationship between children's problems and parental stress reactions was partly mediated by Family Beliefs about illness. The most informative beliefs associated with parental stress symptoms and the family's psychosocial risk level were identified, and significant results were found according to the main component of beliefs (catastrophic vs. optimistic) that explained 42% of the variance in the Family Beliefs subscale. Implication: Understanding the habitual responses to stress and identifying the thinking patterns of parents that lead to distorted views and maladaptive coping are essential for customizing personalized interventions to enhance treatment compliance. The Latvian version of PAT is a useful psychosocial screening measure in pediatric oncology settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Challenging behaviour (CB) is a common issue among children with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual and developmental disability. Mental health applications are low-threshold cost-effective tools to address the lack of resources for caregivers. This pre-post study evaluated the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the smartphone app ProVIA-Kids using algorithm-based behaviour analysis to identify causes of CB and provide individualized practical guidance to manage and prevent CB. Methods: A total of 18 caregivers (M= 38.9 ± 5.0) of children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (44%), intellectual and developmental disabilities (33%) or both (22%) aged 4-11 years (M= 7.6 ± 1.8) were included. Assessments were performed before and after an 8-week intervention period. The primary outcome was the change in parental stress. Caregiver stress experience due to CB was also rated daily via ecological momentary assessments within the app. Secondary outcomes included the intensity of the child's CB, dysfunctional parenting, feelings of parental competency as well as caregivers' mood (rated daily in the app) and feedback on the app collected via the Mobile Application Rating Scale. Results: We observed increases in parental stress in terms of conscious feelings of incompetence. However, we also saw improvements in parental stress experience due to CB and overreactive parenting, and descriptive improvements in CB intensity and caregiver mood. Discussion: ProVIA-Kids pioneers behaviour analysis in a digital and automated format, with participants reporting high acceptance. Pilot results highlight the potential of the ProVIA-Kids app to positively influence child behaviour and caregiver mental health over a longer intervention period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced many new stressors for parents worldwide. This study investigated the link between parents' cumulative stress and psychological distress during the pandemic. Parents' emotion dysregulation was further examined as a moderator between cumulative stress and psychological distress. A total of 155 parents in the United States participated in the present study. Path analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of cumulative stress, including COVID-19-related stress, general stress, and parental stress, as well as emotion dysregulation on parents' psychological distress, including depression and anxiety. The present findings indicated that parents' general stress, parental stress, and emotion dysregulation predicted symptoms of depression. Emotion dysregulation further exacerbated the effect of parental stress on depression. Parents' general stress and emotion dysregulation were also predictive of anxiety symptoms. In addition, emotion dysregulation exacerbated the effect of COVID-19-related stress on parental anxiety. This study revealed that parents' stress and emotion dysregulation were additively and interactively associated with their psychological distress. The findings inform researchers and practitioners that parents' stressors have cumulative effects on their psychological distress and that emotion dysregulation can worsen the negative effect of stress on mental health in challenging times, such as the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parental burnout (PB) is characterised by parental exhaustion resulting from exposure to chronic parental stress. Due to the social and economic changes resulting from the COVID‐19 pandemic that impacted families, there is a significant scientific interest in identifying factors related to PB within the pandemic context. This study aimed to analyse the relationships between parental stress (parental concerns, parental satisfaction, lack of control, and fears and anxieties), family functioning, psychological morbidity (anxiety and depression), and burnout in parents. The sample consisted of 253 parents, legal guardians or primary caregivers of children aged between 0 and 6 years. Results revealed that the child's age, psychological morbidity (depression), and parental stress were significant predictors of PB. Anxiety and family functioning played a moderating role in the relationship between parental satisfaction and PB. According to the results, intervention programs should focus on anxiety symptoms and family functioning to mitigate the effects of parental stress on PB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The stress experienced by parents in fulfilling their parental role has consequences for couple dynamics, parent–child interactions, and the mental health of parents. However, studies on the psychometric properties of the PSI-SF, particularly among Latin American parents, are scarce. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form (PSI-SF). Methods: The participants were Peruvian mothers and fathers with children in early childhood and primary education, with a mean age of 34.4 years (SD = 6.8). The sample was obtained in two phases: 130 participants for the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and 791 participants for the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Results: The study results show a modified three-factor structure of the PSI-SF scale, with adequate fit indices (GFI =.99, AGFI =.99, SRMR =.024, CFI =.98, TLI =.98, RMSEA =.074) and loadings above 0.40. Additionally, the three factors of the scale demonstrated high reliability, with Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega values for Parental Distress (α =.94; ω =.95), Parent–Child Dysfunctional Interaction (α =.97; ω =.97), and Difficult Child (α =.94; ω =.94). The scale was also found to be invariant with respect to gender. Conclusion: In conclusion, the study results suggest that the modified PSI-SF has adequate psychometric properties and is invariant for assessing parental stress in Peruvian fathers and mothers with children in early childhood and primary education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health and well‐being of families worldwide, with parents particularly at risk for stress and other psychological symptoms. In this study, we sought to understand the factors contributing to parent stress symptoms during the early stages of the pandemic in 23 European countries (N = 40,138) using the double ABC‐X model. We examined whether the relationship between stressor pile‐up and perceived stress was mediated by family satisfaction and relationship satisfaction and whether family resiliency beliefs impacted these mediated relationships. Our results showed a direct association between stressor pile‐up and parent stress symptoms, but we did not find evidence for the mediating role of family satisfaction or relationship satisfaction in this relationship. We also found that family resiliency beliefs did not moderate the indirect effects of family satisfaction and relationship satisfaction on parent stress symptoms. These findings suggest that the ABC‐X model may not fully capture the processes affecting parents' experience of stress during the pandemic and that alternative models such as the vulnerability‐stress‐adaptation model may be more relevant. Future research should also consider the potential negative impact of resiliency beliefs on mental health and other risk and protective factors such as self‐compassion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness and the experience of infant abdominal massage on reducing the parental stress level. Methods: A clustered RCT was conducted, 160 parents were recruited from 10 mother groups. An infant abdominal massage class was given to those in the intervention group by a certified International Association of Infant Massage instructor. The Chinese Parenting Stress Index (PSI-SF) was used to measure parental stress levels at baseline and 4 weeks after the intervention. 8 parents from the intervention group were invited for an online interview to understand the experience of parents in participating the infant abdominal massage class. Thematic analysis was applied. Results: The parental stress level was significantly decreased among intervention group with a mean difference of -5.46 (95% CI = 0.72 to 10.2, p =.049). ITT analysis was adopted for compliance analysis. The overall compliance for the intervention was 66% and found to have a significant effect on parental stress level (p <.01). The total PSI-SF among fathers was slightly higher than that among mothers. Furthermore, no moderating factors were found to have a significant interaction effect on PSI-SF (p <.05).For qualitative data, an overarching theme was generated that infant abdominal massage brought a positive experience despite the uncertainties affecting the compliance. Four themes and nine sub-themes were identified. Which were: (1) receiving clear and informative infant abdominal massage classes; (2) The influence of uncertain conditions on compliance; (3) Improving parental satisfaction; and (4) feeling it was a worthwhile experience. Conclusion: This study provides a cost-effective method for parents to tackle their parental stress, the findings aid in the planning or adjustment of current postpartum depression screening while also helping to lower the risk of postpartum mood disorders. Trial registration: Clinical Trial Number (NCT05650424 || http://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05650424), registered on December 1, 2022. and HKU Clinical Trails Registry (HKUCTR3008), registered on November 3, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Parental Stress Scale (PSS) is a well-known tool widely used for assessing parenting stress. However, there is a lack of an Arabic-validated version. This study aimed to validate the PSS in Arabic for use with Lebanese individuals, specifically among parents in Lebanon. Methods: A cross-sectional study including 589 parents in Lebanon were performed between May and July 2023, using random sampling of parents from the five Lebanese governorates. The PSS was translated into Arabic and administered using an online survey. The study collected the sociodemographic data of the participants and incorporated supplementary measures such as the Pediatric Symptom Checklist and the InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being scale. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to assess construct validity. Reliability was examined using Cronbach's alpha. Convergent validity was tested through Pearson correlations with the Pediatric Symptom Checklist and financial well-being. Results: One item of the PSS items was removed. The factor analysis of the PSS scale showed three factors that had an Eigenvalue over 1, showing that the items converged over a three-factor solution, explaining a total of 64.83% of the variance. The Cronbach's alpha values were 0.838, suggesting a good internal consistency. The CFI was 0.895 and TLI was 0.877. A significantly positive correlation was found between the PSS scale and the Pediatric symptom checklist. No correlation was found between the financial well-being scale and the PSS scale. Conclusion: The PSS scale showed appropriate psychometric properties, with high internal consistency, good construct validity, and adequate concurrent validity, which makes it a short, valid, and efficient tool, valuable for the evaluation of the Parental Stress Scale among parents in Lebanon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to enhance the interpretability and clinical utility of the strength and stressors in parenting (SSF) questionnaire, a parent‐reported questionnaire designed to assess strength, stress and associated risks of mental ill‐health in parents of children with developmental disabilities. Responses to the SSF and a demographic questionnaire were collected from 576 parents of children with (n = 203) and without (n = 373) developmental disabilities. To enhance the interpretability of the SSF, a subset of 129 parents were invited to complete an additional questionnaire consisting of three free‐text questions regarding recent help‐seeking behavior, experiences of mental ill‐health and experiences of parenthood. Parents' responses to the free‐text questions were then categorized as indicative of higher or lower degrees of stress and compared to their SSF score distribution to derive empirical cut‐offs for strength, stress and risk of mental ill‐health as measured by the SSF. The credibility of these cut‐offs was evaluated by comparing the cut‐offs with SSF scores collected from the other 447 parents. Finally, SSF scores from parents of children without developmental disabilities (n = 373) were used to generate percentile values for the SSF to enable a standardized interpretation of SSF scores. To increase the utility of the SSF, we examined a recurring pattern of missing answers to items 23 and 33–38, noted in previous studies of the SSF and repeated in the present study. These items were excluded from further analysis since our examination revealed that they were not missing at random but rather constituted real differences in parental experiences, such as receiving a healthcare allowance, or caring for more than one child. The proposed empirical cut‐offs performed well in discriminating between the two groups and yielded a specificity of 77–89% and a sensitivity of 68–76% for the strength, stress and risk of mental ill‐health subscales of the SSF. This study also presents a conversion chart associating each SSF score with a corresponding percentile value. We propose modifications to the SSF, whereby items 23 and 33–38 are excluded, which will enable a more reliable assessment of parental experiences. This will, together with the empirical cut‐offs and percentile values, enhance the interpretability and clinical utility of the SSF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to evaluate the impact of a home-based, post-discharge early intervention (EI) program on reducing parental stress levels in families with preterm infants born between 28+ 0 and 31+ 6 weeks gestational age. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted, with families randomly allocated to either the EI or standard care (SC) group. A term reference group was also recruited for comparison. The Parental Stress Index-Short Form was used to assess parental stress levels, yielding a total stress score and three subdomain scores. Assessment was performed at baseline, at the 60-day mark of the study, and when the infants reached six corrected months of age. Parents in the reference group were assessed only at six months of corrected age for infants. The intervention comprised three sections: intellectual, physical, and social training, which was administered to the infants in the EI group immediately after discharge and to those in the SC group after 60 days of enrollment. Results: Seventy-three families were enrolled in this study, with 37 allocated to the EI group, and 36 to the SC group. Prior to intervention, higher stress levels were reported by mothers in both groups than fathers, with no difference observed between the EI and SC groups. Re-assessment performed at 60 days of the study showed that mothers and fathers in the EI group had significantly lower total stress score than those in the SC group (82.00 ± 5.64 vs. 94.26 ± 7.99, p < 0.001; 80.74 ± 7.14 vs. 89.94 ± 9.17, p < 0.001, respectively), which was predominantly due to the lower scores in parental distress and parental-child dysfunction interaction subdomains in the EI group (both had p < 0.001). Mothers in the EI group exhibited a more pronounced reduction in total stress score after intervention when compared to fathers (13.15 ± 4.68 vs. 8.26 ± 4.03, p < 0.001). At six months of infant age, the total stress score and subdomain scores of parents in the EI and SC groups were similar, but significantly higher than those of the reference group. Conclusion: The home-based, post-discharge EI program demonstrated significant effectiveness in reducing parental stress levels among the parents of very preterm infants. Trial registration: This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration number: CTR1900028330). Registration date: December 19, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing rate of mental health disorders among youth in the United States (U.S.) and the essential role of parents in children's development, many studies have investigated the relationship between parental factors and children's mental health. The current study expanded on this research by exploring the impact of parent solid self (i.e., one subcategory of differentiation of self), parenting stress, parenting styles, and parent involvement in treatment on children's mental health symptom severity. The sample included 216 parents (U.S. residents; Mage = 33.84, SDage = 5.384) with at least one youth aged 3–17 years actively or historically in mental health treatment. Participants completed an online survey that included a demographic questionnaire and measures of parenting styles, parental solid self, parental stress, and children's symptom severity. A simple linear regression found that parental solid self and stress levels were associated with the severity of children's symptoms. A two-way ANOVA revealed that parenting styles had a significant main effect on children's symptom severity. Results also showed that the level of authoritative parenting style mediated the relationship between parental solid self and children's symptom severity. This study further highlighted the importance of promoting individual therapy or psychoeducation for parents and how it might benefit children's treatment. Future research may consider children's perspectives, how parents engage with their child's treatment, incorporating more expansive assessment methods, and longitudinal designs to further explore the impact of parents' differentiation of self, parental stress, parenting styles, and parental involvement in treatment on children's symptom severity. Highlights: Parental level of solid self was negatively associated with children's symptom severity. Parenting styles played a dominant role in children's symptom severity. Authoritative parenting style mediated the relationship between parental solid self and children's symptom severity. Parental involvement in children's treatment may not play a dominant role in children's symptom severity. Promoting individual therapy or psychoeducation for parents might reduce children's symptom severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study analyzed the association between anxiety, repetitive behavior and parental stress in individuals with autism from Spain (n = 60, mean age = 8.52, SD = 4.41) and Colombia (n = 58, mean age = 10.29, SD = 4.98). Similarly, differences in anxiety, repetitive behavior and parental stress between both countries were analyzed. Outcomes revealed a strong relationship between anxiety and repetitive behavior in both populations. Furthermore, moderate positive associations were observed between anxiety, repetitive behavior and parental stress in the Spanish sample. However, parental stress was found to be moderately and negatively related with anxiety and repetitive behavior in the Colombian sample. Finally, no differences were found in anxiety and repetitive behavior between countries, but differences did emerge for parental stress which was found to be higher in the Colombian sample. In conclusion, differences in parental stress may be due to regional differences in socio-health resources, socio-economics, parenting styles, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric seizure disorders profoundly impact family dynamics, often escalating stress and impairing coping mechanisms. This study aimed to longitudinally assess the impact of pediatric seizures on family stress and coping, evaluating the efficacy of multidisciplinary follow-up care in enhancing psychological resilience and adaptation. A longitudinal study design was implemented, enrolling children aged 1–18 who presented with a first seizure and received a neurologist's diagnosis at the Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children "Louis Turcanu," Timisoara, Romania. Validated questionnaires, including the Parenting Stress Index (PSI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Parental Concerns Questionnaire (PCQ), were employed at baseline, 6, and 12 months. Statistical analysis utilized ANOVA and t-tests to evaluate changes in stress and coping outcomes. The study involved 68 families, with significant reductions in stress and anxiety reported over the follow-up period. Initial PSI scores showed high stress levels across various domains: Emotional Stress (59.47) decreased to 50.63 at one year; Parent–Child Communication Difficulties started at 66.03 ± 20.15 and reduced to 56.92 ± 18.74; and Total Family Stress decreased from 65.55 to 55.97. The HADS scores indicated initial anxiety and depression at 8.2 ± 3.1 and 7.1 ± 2.8, respectively, with reductions to 6.8 and 5.9 by the end of the year. The overall HADS score showed a decrease from 15.4 to 12.8. PCQ results mirrored these findings, with Total Score dropping from 9.7 to 7.7. PSS-10 scores declined from 13.5 to 11.3, with a significant reduction in the positive sub-score. The proactive, multidisciplinary care approach significantly reduced stress and enhanced coping mechanisms in families dealing with pediatric seizures. The decreases in stress, anxiety, and depression scores highlight the potential for integrated care models to improve long-term outcomes in these families. These findings support the continued development of targeted interventions to aid in the management of chronic pediatric conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parents who have experienced cumulative childhood interpersonal trauma (CCIT, i.e., an accumulation of different types of abuse) tend to experience higher parental stress following the birth of a child. As CCIT is associated with lower levels of partner support, which is linked to increased parental stress, partner support could explain the link between CCIT and parental stress. Yet, these variables have never been studied using a dyadic approach. This study examined the role of received and provided partner support in the association between CCIT and parental stress. A randomly selected sample of 1119 couples with infants completed online questionnaires assessing CCIT, partner support, and parental stress. An actor-partner interdependence model path analysis showed that both parents' CCIT were associated with increased paternal stress through fathers' lower received and provided support, and with increased maternal stress through mothers' received and provided support. Overall, the findings highlight the significance of examining the interdependence between both parents' experience and the role of partner support as a key factor explaining the link between CCIT and parental stress, thereby emphasizing its importance as an intervention target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In today's society, parental stress has become a prevalent and significant issue, impacting not only parents' mental health but also potentially profoundly affecting children's growth and education. This topic has garnered continuous attention from scholars. The present study aims to delve into the relationship between parental stress and children's behavior, particularly focusing on children's conformity and discipline development during crucial stages. This study aims to explore the relationship between parental stress, child conformity, and resilience, and further examines the mediating role of resilience in the relationship between parental stress and child conformity. Methods: We used three scales: the Parental Stress Scale, the Child Conformity Scale, and the Resilience Scale, to survey 890 elementary school students (aged 6–12) and their parents in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region of China. We employed SPSS 26.0 software for data analysis, conducting descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and mediation effect tests sequentially. In the mediation effect tests, we utilized structural equation modeling (SEM) and regression analysis to examine the mediation effects, ensuring the accuracy and scientific nature of our analysis. Results: Through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, regression models, and mediation effect tests, we found that parental stress significantly negatively predicts child conformity, while resilience shows a significant positive prediction. Further mediation analysis indicates that resilience plays a partial mediating role between parental stress and child conformity, with the mediation effect accounting for 36.67%. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of the family environment on child behavior and provide valuable insights and recommendations for family education practices in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Therefore, we suggest future research should further explore the complex relationships among parental stress, child conformity, and resilience, and examine regional differences to better promote children's overall development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the factors predictive of technology addiction in young children (aged 2–5 years). The study examined the effects of digital parenting awareness, parental stress, family demographic characteristics and parents' technology use habits on technology addiction in young children. This cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2023 and February 2024 with 401 volunteer parents of children aged 2–5 years in a province in the Western Mediterranean region of Turkey. Data were collected using the Technology Addiction Scale for Ages 2–5, the Digital Parental Awareness Scale, and the Parental Stress Scale. Digital parenting awareness, negative modeling and digital neglect, and parental stress positively and directly affect technology addiction in young children (β 1 = 0.166, β 2 = 0.443, β 3 = 0.087, all p < 0.05). Additionally, parental gender (β = 0.095), parental marital status (β = 0.092), and household income (β = 0.088) were significant predictors of technology addiction in young children (p < 0.05). The level of technology addiction is significantly higher in children who use devices without parental controls (Z = −6.187, p < 0.001). Low digital parenting awareness, high parental stress, male caregivers, low household income and single-parent families in digital tools increase the risk of technology addiction in young children (2–5 years). Multidisciplinary, family-oriented intervention programs, incorporating consideration of parental risk factors, should be developed to prevent and reduce technology addiction in this group. • Although the vulnerability of young children to technology addiction is known, there is a gap in understanding its predictors in these children. • Low digital parenting awareness and high parental stress increase the risk of technology addiction in young children. • Male caregivers, low household income, and single-parent families in digital tools increase the risk of technology addiction in young children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to quantify the effect of the closure of daycare facilities during the early stage of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the stress of parents with preschool children. Using household panel data collected before and after the pandemic, we estimated difference-in-differences models and their extensions. Our empirical results show that the closure of daycare facilities significantly worsened parental stress as measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. The negative effects of daycare closures on parental stress levels were greater for mothers, non-regular workers, and households with relatively older children. In contrast, on parents in metropolitan areas or those with younger children, no significant effects of daycare closures were observed. We discuss the two conflicting pathways—the increased childcare burden and the decreased risk of children's infection—through which daycare closures affected parental distress, interpret the heterogeneous effects accordingly, and provide policy implications. Our results suggest that a risk-based, local closure policy could have been effective in reducing parental stress during the emergency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study investigates the impact of financial insecurity on the mental well-being and stress levels of parents in Lebanon amid the country’s severe economic crisis. The context of Lebanon’s economic collapse, coupled with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Beirut port explosion, has exacerbated financial and psychological distress among the population. This research aims to understand the correlation between financial instability and parental stress, identifying key factors contributing to mental health challenges in this demographic. Methods Employing a quantitative research approach, data was collected through an online survey from 785 parents from different backgrounds in Lebanon. The survey incorporated sociodemographic questions, the InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being Scale (IFDFW), and the Arabic version of the Parental Stress Scale (PSS). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25. Results Findings showed significant correlations between high levels of parental stress and factors such as age (r = 0.071, p = 0.047) and lower education levels. Notably, refugees residing in Lebanon exhibited higher stress levels compared to Lebanese parents (mean stress score: 51.73 vs. 45.71, p

Abstract Objective To investigate the effectiveness and the experience of infant abdominal massage on reducing the parental stress level. Methods A clustered RCT was conducted, 160 parents were recruited from 10 mother groups. An infant abdominal massage class was given to those in the intervention group by a certified International Association of Infant Massage instructor. The Chinese Parenting Stress Index (PSI-SF) was used to measure parental stress levels at baseline and 4 weeks after the intervention. 8 parents from the intervention group were invited for an online interview to understand the experience of parents in participating the infant abdominal massage class. Thematic analysis was applied. Results The parental stress level was significantly decreased among intervention group with a mean difference of -5.46 (95% CI = 0.72 to 10.2, p = .049). ITT analysis was adopted for compliance analysis. The overall compliance for the intervention was 66% and found to have a significant effect on parental stress level (p

Abstract Background The stress experienced by parents in fulfilling their parental role has consequences for couple dynamics, parent–child interactions, and the mental health of parents. However, studies on the psychometric properties of the PSI-SF, particularly among Latin American parents, are scarce. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form (PSI-SF). Methods The participants were Peruvian mothers and fathers with children in early childhood and primary education, with a mean age of 34.4 years (SD = 6.8). The sample was obtained in two phases: 130 participants for the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and 791 participants for the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Results The study results show a modified three-factor structure of the PSI-SF scale, with adequate fit indices (GFI = .99, AGFI = .99, SRMR = .024, CFI = .98, TLI = .98, RMSEA = .074) and loadings above 0.40. Additionally, the three factors of the scale demonstrated high reliability, with Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega values for Parental Distress (α = .94; ω = .95), Parent–Child Dysfunctional Interaction (α = .97; ω = .97), and Difficult Child (α = .94; ω = .94). The scale was also found to be invariant with respect to gender. Conclusion In conclusion, the study results suggest that the modified PSI-SF has adequate psychometric properties and is invariant for assessing parental stress in Peruvian fathers and mothers with children in early childhood and primary education.

Abstract Background This study aims to evaluate the impact of a home-based, post-discharge early intervention (EI) program on reducing parental stress levels in families with preterm infants born between 28+ 0 and 31+ 6 weeks gestational age. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted, with families randomly allocated to either the EI or standard care (SC) group. A term reference group was also recruited for comparison. The Parental Stress Index-Short Form was used to assess parental stress levels, yielding a total stress score and three subdomain scores. Assessment was performed at baseline, at the 60-day mark of the study, and when the infants reached six corrected months of age. Parents in the reference group were assessed only at six months of corrected age for infants. The intervention comprised three sections: intellectual, physical, and social training, which was administered to the infants in the EI group immediately after discharge and to those in the SC group after 60 days of enrollment. Results Seventy-three families were enrolled in this study, with 37 allocated to the EI group, and 36 to the SC group. Prior to intervention, higher stress levels were reported by mothers in both groups than fathers, with no difference observed between the EI and SC groups. Re-assessment performed at 60 days of the study showed that mothers and fathers in the EI group had significantly lower total stress score than those in the SC group (82.00 ± 5.64 vs. 94.26 ± 7.99, p

The present study examined the profiles of parental perceptions of their child's school adjustment in terms of learning loss and school well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic in Finland. Furthermore, the extent to which the profiles differed with respect to the different children and their family characteristics, as well as their parents' stress about their child's schooling, were examined. Parents (N = 26,313) completed a questionnaire in spring 2021 concerning parental stress and their children's schooling. The five-profile solution was identified using latent profile analysis: (1) slightly-higher-than-average-school-adjustment (n = 8198, 31.2%); (2) high-school-adjustment (n = 3017, 11.5%); (3) slightly-lower-than-average-school-adjustment (n = 5025, 19.1%); (4) low-school-adjustment (n = 6777, 25.7%); and (5) mixed-school-adjustment (n = 3296, 12.5%). The low-school-adjustment profile was overrepresented among parents of boys, older children, and children with special education needs as well as among parents with lower education levels, higher numbers of children, and in single-parent households. In addition, the results showed that parental stress about their child's schooling was associated with their perceptions of their child's school adjustment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the results demonstrate that parents' views of their children's school adjustment varied widely during the COVID-19 pandemic. At schools, particular attention should be given to at-risk families (e.g., families with low education levels and children with special education needs) in which children may be prone to learning loss and low well-being due to the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The goal was to understand how children born of rape in the Democratic Republic of Congo induce parental stress and how parents work together to care for these children. Background: Abundant literature is devoted to children born of rape, but nothing is known about the stress undergone by their parents in the care process. Method: Twenty‐four rape survivor couples and 26 control couples with children aged 6–17 were subjected to Parenting Alliance Inventory (PAI) and Parenting Stress Index (PSI) tests in the east part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Result s : The parental alliance of the rape survivor couples was comparable to that of the controls. However, for survivor couples, mothers received more support from their husbands for girls than for boys. Parental stress was low among fathers. It was high among mothers of boys and low among fathers of girls. Finally, it was high among mothers of boys compared with fathers. Conclusion: Boys born of rape induce high parental stress compared with girls born of rape, and mothers experience more stress than fathers. Implications: Support programs for families of rape survivors must be gender specific for both parents and children, and preferably a family‐centered approach should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This exploratory mixed‐methods study examined the perceptions of parental experience, coping, and resiliency of 690 parents in the United States during the pandemic. Background: In response to being faced with additional stressors from the onset of COVID‐19 pandemic, many families tapped into coping strategies and resilience. Results: A survey administered during July–September of 2020 determined that parental stress, difficulties with COVID‐19, and family functioning significantly impacted overall parental experience. Health concerns did not have a significant impact on parenting. Qualitative data were coded and analyzed to answer two open‐ended questions regarding parents coping and positive effects of the pandemic. Four subthemes emerged: (a) readjusting connections, (b) intentional wellness, (c) family cohesion, and (d) deceleration of time. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that parents were able to develop coping strategies and find positives even during the early stages of the pandemic. Implications: This study provides support for Walsh's (2020) description of "bouncing forward" versus the traditional notion of "bouncing back" in the face of change and uncertainty, especially for higher resourced families. A common experience for participants was the reported use of intentional strategies that aided in processing, healing, and hope during this time of uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Within the NICU, there is a delicate equilibrium between providing assistance to parents by nurses and prioritising family-centred care (FCC). The FCC assumes the role of a mediator, effectively conveying compassion. The intricate dynamics between FCC, parental nurse support, and parental stress in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) necessitate comprehensive investigation. Objective This study examines the mediating effect of FCC on the relationship between parental nurse support and parental stress in NICUs. Methods This cross-sectional observational study used convenience sampling to select 223 parents (202 mothers) from Mansoura City hospitals in Egypt. Data were collected using the Nurse Parent Support Tool (NPST), Family-Centered Care Self-Assessment Tool (FCCS-NICU), and the Parental Stressor Scale: NICU (PSS: NICU). Mediation analysis was used to examine the relationships between variables. Results Nurse support was positively associated with FCC (β = 0.81, p

Pediatric seizure disorders profoundly impact family dynamics, often escalating stress and impairing coping mechanisms. This study aimed to longitudinally assess the impact of pediatric seizures on family stress and coping, evaluating the efficacy of multidisciplinary follow-up care in enhancing psychological resilience and adaptation. A longitudinal study design was implemented, enrolling children aged 1–18 who presented with a first seizure and received a neurologist’s diagnosis at the Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children “Louis Turcanu,” Timisoara, Romania. Validated questionnaires, including the Parenting Stress Index (PSI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Parental Concerns Questionnaire (PCQ), were employed at baseline, 6, and 12 months. Statistical analysis utilized ANOVA and t-tests to evaluate changes in stress and coping outcomes. The study involved 68 families, with significant reductions in stress and anxiety reported over the follow-up period. Initial PSI scores showed high stress levels across various domains: Emotional Stress (59.47) decreased to 50.63 at one year; Parent–Child Communication Difficulties started at 66.03 ± 20.15 and reduced to 56.92 ± 18.74; and Total Family Stress decreased from 65.55 to 55.97. The HADS scores indicated initial anxiety and depression at 8.2 ± 3.1 and 7.1 ± 2.8, respectively, with reductions to 6.8 and 5.9 by the end of the year. The overall HADS score showed a decrease from 15.4 to 12.8. PCQ results mirrored these findings, with Total Score dropping from 9.7 to 7.7. PSS-10 scores declined from 13.5 to 11.3, with a significant reduction in the positive sub-score. The proactive, multidisciplinary care approach significantly reduced stress and enhanced coping mechanisms in families dealing with pediatric seizures. The decreases in stress, anxiety, and depression scores highlight the potential for integrated care models to improve long-term outcomes in these families. These findings support the continued development of targeted interventions to aid in the management of chronic pediatric conditions.

Abstract Background The pandemic and the associated consequences have been ongoing stressors with severe impacts on the population and particularly on families. Research focusing on groups dealing well with the challenges of the pandemic is scarce. Here, we aimed to identify groups being well-adjusted during the pandemic and associated predictors. Methods A representative sample of the German population (N = 2,515, 51.6% women, 50.09 years), and a subsample of persons with children or adolescents under the age of 18 (N = 453, 60.3% women, 40.08 years) was assessed from July to October 2021. As huge differences in coping with the pandemic are seen, cluster analysis was performed. Results Persons in the “well-adjusted cluster” were characterized by higher quality of life, better coping with the pandemic and lower burden of the pandemic. The family subsample well-adjusted cluster was characterized by lower pandemic-associated burden, lower parental stress compared to before the pandemic and a better relationship with the child. Fewer mental health symptoms and less pandemic-associated negative impact on career predicted membership of the well-adjusted cluster in both samples. An interaction between mental health symptoms and the negative impact of COVID-19 on the career was found. Conclusions Our results underscore the importance of mental health and work-related factors for coping with the pandemic.

Abstract Background Parents of children on the autism spectrum often face great challenges in the care of their child. Early support tailored to families’ individual needs is therefore crucial for the development and quality of life of both children on the autism spectrum and their families. However, to date it is unclear whether the support available meets the parents’ needs. Study Aim To investigate how the system of care, support, and therapies for children on the autism spectrum is perceived by their parents. Method A total of 57 parents of Swiss children on the autism spectrum participated in an online survey, and 20 of them participated in additional semi-structured interviews. Results We found that parents of children on the autism spectrum may face substantial challenges and that social support is essential. Two thirds of the participating parents reported a long and difficult diagnostic process as challenging, and 60% expressed their need for closer follow-up after diagnosis and more support. Only one third of the parents stated that they manage their everyday lives well, whereas 17.5% felt exhausted, and more than half of the parents responded that they felt challenged. One fifth indicated that they had poor family support, and half reported substantial financial challenges. At the same time, most families also emphasize how important their neurodivergent children are to the family`s life together. Conclusion It is important that primary pediatricians not only initiate the diagnostic process, but also assess the different needs of the different family independent of the diagnosis and, if necessary, initiate adequate measures or guide parents to institutions in charge. Parents who do not actively express their individual needs should nevertheless be advised about support services, including financial counseling. The positive aspects mentioned by families can be emphasized and used as resources to improve their quality of life.

Background and purpose: Pregnancy, childbirth, and acceptance of parental roles are associated with anxiety and stress in parents, and mothers of premature infants have special needs. Peer education has been introduced as an effective way of educating patients and their caregivers. This study aimed to determine the effect of a peer education program on parental stress and situational anxiety in mothers of premature infants hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit Materials and methods: This was a quasi-experimental study conducted in Karaj. The study population consisted of 154 mothers of premature infants hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit of Alborz Hospital in Karaj. A sequential sampling method was used according to the inclusion criteria. First, 77 mothers in the control group were included in the study, and after collecting data, the mothers of the intervention group were selected. Five 30-minute training sessions were performed on consecutive days and at specific times by five trained counterparts for the mothers of the intervention group in small groups of 3-5 people. Training sessions consisted of discussions and exchanges of opinions between researchers and peers. The sessions were held at the hospital in the training room next to the neonatal intensive care unit at a certain time of the day and for 5 consecutive days. At the end of each session, peer educators summarized the issues raised in the group and answered the questions. Parental stress was assessed using the Parental Stress and Scale, and situational anxiety was assessed using the Spielberg Situational Anxiety Inventory. The mothers of the intervention group answered the questions of the above-mentioned questionnaire before the implementation of the peer education program immediately after the intervention and one month later. Mothers in the control group completed the questionnaire simultaneously. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 with analysis variances T t-test, and repeated measure test. Results: The mean age of mothers in the control and intervention groups was 29.49±4.76 and 30.5±4.5 respectively. The education level of most mothers in both the intervention and control groups was middle and high school to diploma, and most mothers of premature infants in both the intervention and control groups were housewives. None of the demographic characteristics was significantly different between the intervention and control groups. The mean stress scores in the intervention and control groups before the intervention were 120.94±16.04 and 116.26±33.82, respectively(P=0.462). Mothers in the intervention group experienced significantly less parental stress (intervention: 98.71±11.21, control: 114.83±32.56) after the peer education program compared with the control group, and this difference was statistically significant(P=0.007). There was a significant difference in parental stress one month after the implementation of the peer education program (intervention: 98.71±11.21, control: 114.83±32.56 (P

Objective: Externalizing behavior problems (EBPs) are common in children, with significant long-term impact on the child and family members. Parents, particularly mothers, of children with EBPs often experience heightened emotional distress. One crucial factor affecting parents’ ability to manage this distress is their level of differentiation-of-self (DOS). Differentiated parents are more likely to engage in practices that meet their child’s psychological needs, thus supporting the self-determination theory principles vital for a child’s well-being. This study examined the impact of parental DOS on parenting practices and subsequently on the child’s EBPs, exploring possible differences between mothers and fathers. Methods: Thirty-two mother–father dyads with children aged 6–14, diagnosed with EBPs participated. Parents completed the Differentiation of Self Inventory–Short Form, the Revised Parents as a Social Context Questionnaire, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire to assess parental DOS, practices, and child’s EBPs, respectively. Adjusted parallel mediation models examined the mediating role of parental practices in the relationship between parental DOS and a child’s EBPs. Results: While no direct link between parental DOS and child’s symptoms was found, a complete mediation model indicated need-frustrating practices mediating between parental DOS and a child’s EBPs, for both mothers and fathers. Additionally, fathers’ need-supportive practices, but not mothers’, were negatively associated with the child’s symptoms. Discussion: These findings highlight the interaction between parental traits, need-frustrating practices, and a child’s psychopathology. Notably, fathers’ supportive behaviors emerged as potential protective factors against child’s EBPs, suggesting promising directions for future research and interventions targeting fathers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Within the NICU, there is a delicate equilibrium between providing assistance to parents by nurses and prioritising family-centred care (FCC). The FCC assumes the role of a mediator, effectively conveying compassion. The intricate dynamics between FCC, parental nurse support, and parental stress in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) necessitate comprehensive investigation. Objective: This study examines the mediating effect of FCC on the relationship between parental nurse support and parental stress in NICUs. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study used convenience sampling to select 223 parents (202 mothers) from Mansoura City hospitals in Egypt. Data were collected using the Nurse Parent Support Tool (NPST), Family-Centered Care Self-Assessment Tool (FCCS-NICU), and the Parental Stressor Scale: NICU (PSS: NICU). Mediation analysis was used to examine the relationships between variables. Results: Nurse support was positively associated with FCC (β = 0.81, p < 0.001) and negatively related to parental stress (β=-1.156, p < 0.001). FCC was found to reduce parental stress (β=-0.18, p < 0.001). Mediation analysis confirmed that FCC partially mediated the relationship between nurse support and parental stress (indirect effect β = 0.145, 95% CI: 0.055–1.007). Conclusions: This study highlights a significant association in the mediating role of FCC between nurse support and parental stress. Strengthening FCC practices can be an effective strategy for nurses to support parents and alleviate their stress in NICU settings. Implications to practice: NICUs should implement FCC-oriented training for nurses, foster a culture that supports FCC principles, and develop policies to establish FCC as a cornerstone of neonatal care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Parenting is stressful for parents, especially mothers, along with many challenges and responsibilities, and many factors can affect parental stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate the moderating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between perfectionism and parental stress in mothers of elementary school students. Materials and Methods: The present research is descriptive. The statistical population included the mothers of elementary school students in Arak City in the academic year 2022-2023, out of which 300 mothers were selected by convenience sampling method and completed Tehran Multidimensional Perfectionism, Parental Stress Short Form, and Emotional Intelligence Questionnaires. Data were analyzed using correlation tests and structural equations modeling. Results: The results showed that mothers' emotional intelligence has a negative and significant relationship with parental stress (r=- 0.67), and parental perfectionism has a positive and significant relationship with parental stress (r=0.26) (p<0.001). But there was no significant relationship between perfectionism and emotional intelligence in mothers (p>0.05). According to the structural model, emotional intelligence had a moderating role in the relationship between perfectionism and parental stress (p<0.001). Conclusion: According to the results, it appears that high perfectionism and low emotional intelligence in mothers can increase their parenting stress. On the other hand, in mothers who have high emotional intelligence, perfectionism will have less effect on parenting stress. Therefore, increasing emotional intelligence in mothers is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) exhibit more executive function (EF) deficits compared to typically developing (TD) peers. EF deficits are linked to various impairments in daily functioning and increased parental stress. The first aim of the present study is to investigate EFs in children with ASD and ADHD compared to their TD peers. The second aim is to explore profiles of executive functions in children with ASD and ADHD and, finally, to determine the differences of EF profiles in relation to parental stress and children's functional impairments. Methods: The sample comprised 30 TD children, 47 children with ASD, and 34 children with ADHD, aged 8 to 12 years. Parents completed questionnaires of parenting stress, and children's social and daily-life functioning. Parents and teachers reported information about children's EF. Results: The results indicated significantly greater impairment of EFs in the clinical groups compared to the TD group. Moreover, three distinct clusters of functioning were identified based on the severity of reported EF difficulties. The significant findings showed that children with more severe EF profiles were associated with greater daily impairment and higher levels of perceived parental stress. Conclusions: Given the impact of EF deficits on the lives of children with ASD and ADHD and their families, it is crucial that studies like this enhance our understanding and inspire future interventions aimed at improving executive functions in children with ASD and ADHD. Such interventions could help reduce parental stress and improve daily functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preterm birth and prolonged neonatal hospitalization are potential sources of stress for mothers of preterm and low birth weight infants. Aim: To evaluate maternal stress and its association with neurobehavioral indicators of preterm infants during hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a neonatal intensive care unit of a hospital in Goiânia, Brazil. The study included preterm and low birth weight infants of both genders and their mothers. The Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the Neurobehavioral Assessment of the Preterm Infant were respectively applied to mothers and infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Results: The study involved 165 premature infants and their mothers. The mean age of the mothers was 26.3 years and most had a high school education level (57.6%). Mothers perceived the experience of having an infant in the neonatal intensive care unit as moderately stressful (2.96 ± 0.81). The parental role alteration (4.11 ± 1.03) and sights and sounds (2.15 ± 0.90) subscales exhibited the highest and lowest stress levels, respectively. Significant correlations (rho < −0.3; p < 0.05) were found between maternal stress and neurobehavioral indicators of infants. In the multivariate analysis, low leg tone was a predictor of higher maternal stress. Low tone and limited arm movement were predictors of higher maternal stress in the maternal role item. Conclusions: The experience of having a preterm infant hospitalized was considered moderately stressful for mothers. Maternal stress levels were significantly correlated with low scores on neonatal neurobehavioral indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pandemic and the associated consequences have been ongoing stressors with severe impacts on the population and particularly on families. Research focusing on groups dealing well with the challenges of the pandemic is scarce. Here, we aimed to identify groups being well-adjusted during the pandemic and associated predictors. Methods: A representative sample of the German population (N = 2,515, 51.6% women, 50.09 years), and a subsample of persons with children or adolescents under the age of 18 (N = 453, 60.3% women, 40.08 years) was assessed from July to October 2021. As huge differences in coping with the pandemic are seen, cluster analysis was performed. Results: Persons in the "well-adjusted cluster" were characterized by higher quality of life, better coping with the pandemic and lower burden of the pandemic. The family subsample well-adjusted cluster was characterized by lower pandemic-associated burden, lower parental stress compared to before the pandemic and a better relationship with the child. Fewer mental health symptoms and less pandemic-associated negative impact on career predicted membership of the well-adjusted cluster in both samples. An interaction between mental health symptoms and the negative impact of COVID-19 on the career was found. Conclusions: Our results underscore the importance of mental health and work-related factors for coping with the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parents of children on the autism spectrum often face great challenges in the care of their child. Early support tailored to families' individual needs is therefore crucial for the development and quality of life of both children on the autism spectrum and their families. However, to date it is unclear whether the support available meets the parents' needs. Study Aim: To investigate how the system of care, support, and therapies for children on the autism spectrum is perceived by their parents. Method: A total of 57 parents of Swiss children on the autism spectrum participated in an online survey, and 20 of them participated in additional semi-structured interviews. Results: We found that parents of children on the autism spectrum may face substantial challenges and that social support is essential. Two thirds of the participating parents reported a long and difficult diagnostic process as challenging, and 60% expressed their need for closer follow-up after diagnosis and more support. Only one third of the parents stated that they manage their everyday lives well, whereas 17.5% felt exhausted, and more than half of the parents responded that they felt challenged. One fifth indicated that they had poor family support, and half reported substantial financial challenges. At the same time, most families also emphasize how important their neurodivergent children are to the family's life together. Conclusion: It is important that primary pediatricians not only initiate the diagnostic process, but also assess the different needs of the different family independent of the diagnosis and, if necessary, initiate adequate measures or guide parents to institutions in charge. Parents who do not actively express their individual needs should nevertheless be advised about support services, including financial counseling. The positive aspects mentioned by families can be emphasized and used as resources to improve their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The primary aims of our cross-sectional observational study were: (i) to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms in children and adolescents with epilepsy compared to controls and (ii) to explore the difference in depressive symptoms in patients with epilepsy only and those with epilepsy and primary headache as a comorbidity. The secondary objective was to explore parental stress levels. Methods: 68 pediatric patients aged 6-18 years (44 with epilepsy only and 24 with epilepsy and headache) and 50 controls were recruited. Depressive profile and parental stress were assessed using Children's Depression Inventory, Second Edition (CDI-2) and Parenting Stress Index-Short Form (PSI-SF). Results: The group with epilepsy showed significantly high depressive symptoms and parental stress compared to controls. The patients with headache in comorbidity experienced more depressive symptoms than those with epilepsy only. Conclusion: Depressive symptoms are more prevalent in patients who have comorbid epilepsy and primary headache; therefore, the neurological/psychological mechanisms underlying this condition should be further investigated. The simultaneous presence of epilepsy, headache and depressive symptoms impacts the quality of life of patients and their parents, increasing parental stress and family management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parental stress experienced in the context of caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in preschool is significant and has been poorly studied; studies tend to focus on more advanced ages of children where parental symptomatology has become chronic. The current study sought to provide new empirical evidence on factors associated with parental stress. Methods: An exhaustive search was conducted in four academic databases: CINAHL Complete, Medline Complete, Web of Science (WoS), and Scopus, limiting the articles to those published between 2017 and 2023. Results: The sample obtained consisted of 24 selected articles, which were produced in 11 countries, and all were in English. In terms of content, the topics addressed were the manifestation of parental stress, factors of the child with ASD and their relationship with parental stress, factors of parents of children with ASD, family factors of parents of children with ASD, social factors of parents of children with ASD, parental stress and access to formal care services, and parental stress and specialized interventions. Conclusions: It is possible to affirm that research reports indicate that the general level of stress among parents of children with ASD is compared to their reference groups, both in relation to child-related stress and other stressors. The variables that affect parental stress exhibit a reciprocal influence among them, so interventions aimed at early childhood should incorporate both the children and their parental figures. This is in consideration of the impact that stress has on the mental health of parents, establishing that parents with better health have early access to support services during the early years of parenting, as well as in later years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The mother's parenting stress can lead to children's behavioral problems, and among these, variables related to the parent-child relationship can be a moderator. The present study aimed to determine the moderating role of the components of maternal reflective functioning in the relationship between the mother's parenting stress and the child's behavioral problems. Materials and Methods: The current research is descriptive. Based on the convenience sampling method, 200 mothers who visited the children's clinics in Tehran in 2023 were selected and completed questionnaires of Parental Reflective Functioning, Parental Stress, and Child Behavior Checklist. Data analysis was performed using correlation tests and hierarchical regression. Results: There was significant a positive relationship between mother's parental stress and pre-mentalizing (r=0.31, p<0.001) and certainty of mental states (r=0.32, p<0.001), and a significant negative relationship between mother's parental stress and interest and curiosity in mental states (r=-0.34, p<0.001). Moreover, there was a significant positive relationship between parental stress and child's behavioral problems (r=0.47, p<0.001), and child's behavioral problems and pre-mentalizing (r=0.26, p<0.001) and certainty of mental states (r=0.30, p<0.001), and there was a significant negative relationship between parental stress and interest and curiosity in mental states (r=-0.28, p<0.001). The moderating role of pre-mentalizing components (p=0.041) and certainty in recognizing mental states (p=0.035) in the relationship between parental stress and the child's behavioral problems was also confirmed. Conclusion: The mother's low reflective functioning and parental stress can increase the probability of behavioral problems in children. Parental stress in mothers who have lower reflective functioning has a more negative effect on children's behavioral problems. Therefore, it is recommended to pay attention to teaching reflective functioning to mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the extent to which youth and families experienced COVID-related stress requires accounting for prior levels of stress and other associated factors. This is especially important for military families, which experience unique stressors and may be reluctant to seek outside help. In this prospective study, we examined the role of pre-pandemic family factors in predicting parent and youth stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were 234 families with at least one active-duty parent and a 3rd or 5th-grade child. Findings revealed that preexisting factors predicted youth and family COVID-related stress. Specifically, heightened pre-pandemic parental stress and youth internalizing symptoms were significant predictors of COVID-related stress. Implications for mental health professionals and other organizations supporting military parents and families during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as other times of upheaval are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parents, who were working as essential frontline healthcare workers experienced unique stressors during the COVID-19 pandemic including disruption of regular routines, long lapses away from family, extreme work stress and subsequent difficulty in compartmentalizing work-related concerns when at home. The purpose of this study was to assess COVID-19 exposure and impact of frontline healthcare workers who are parents. This study quantitatively assessed the COVID-19 exposure and impact and qualitatively explored perceptions of parents of children 9 to 17 years of age, who were also frontline healthcare workers. Participants (N = 79) using the COVID-19 Exposure and Family Impact Survey (CEFIS) reported exposure mean scores of 10.03 (SD = 2.63); and impact scores mean scores of 3.18 (SD = 0.46). Thematic analysis identified four themes, each with 2 subthemes: 1) family stressors increased (e.g., concerns about health and safety, losses of lifestyle patterns); 2) changes in children's health and well-being (e.g., isolation from family and friends, mental health problems); 3) virtual school difficulties (e.g., parent and student challenges, home school option); 4) skill building opportunities (e.g., enhanced emotional connections, increased family activities). The CHAMPS Family Health Study suggests that families of essential workers are especially vulnerable to the effect of COVID-19, as are those families of essential workers who include child/ren with special health care needs. Preparation for future emergencies requires strategies to mitigate consequences and promote well-being. These results highlight the need for supportive approaches to decrease the negative consequences of stress and to augment skills for family connection and cooperation. • Numerous challenges were experienced by parents who were frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. • Parents with shared custody of their children voluntarily waived visitation to protect the children from the COVID virus. • Preparation for future emergencies requires resources, support systems, and focused strategies to manage family problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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