Parenting stress in parents of children with cerebral palsy and its association with physical function

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine parenting stress levels in the parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP) and to examine the factors that contribute to the parenting stress score. Parenting stress levels were assessed in 101 parents of children with CP (mean age 8.8 years, SD 2.1) using the parenting stress index (PSI). The extent of involvement, gross motor function classification system, and pediatric outcomes data collection instrument were collected for patients’ information. The responding parent, parents’ age, percentage of involvement in the parenting role, employment, socioeconomic status, educational level, other children, and age were obtained for parents’ information. Normative percentile scores were calculated for each subscale, each domain, and the total PSI score. Multiple regression analysis was carried out to determine the significant factors contributing to the PSI score. The mean total PSI score was 97.7 (SD 4.6). The global function score of pediatric outcomes data collection instrument (P=0.004) and ambulatory states (gross motor function classification system, P=0.002) were found to be the significant factors contributing to the total PSI score, where parents of children with a more favorable function showed a higher PSI score. Parents of children with CP showed a high level of parenting stress. Clinicians should keep in mind that psychological support and intervention might be needed for parents of children with CP.