The Mediating Role of Parental Self-Efficacy in the Relationship Between Parental Psychological Flexibility and Behavioral Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

Objective: Autism is described as a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that necessitates attention in early childhood. The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of parental self-efficacy in the relationship between parental psychological flexibility and behavioral skills in these children.

Methods and Materials: This descriptive study followed a correlational design and included a population of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder in Shiraz, Iran, using a convenience sampling method. The study included all children with autism spectrum disorder who had been receiving training at autism centers for at least one year. The questionnaires used in this research included the Social Skills Rating System by Gresham and Elliott (1990), the Parenting Sense of Competence Scale by Johnston and Mash (1989), and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire.

Findings: The findings indicated that the research model had a good fit. There was a positive and significant relationship between acceptance and action with parental self-efficacy, as well as between social skills and behavioral skills. On the other hand, a significant negative relationship was observed between parental self-efficacy and problematic behaviors.

Conclusion: Parents can be more successful in caring for their children and help improve their children's communication, social, and behavioral performance by enhancing positive psychological factors within themselves.