2026, Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A
Stress and psychological wellbeing among parents of autistic children
Author(s): Anshida Jasmin M and Sruthy M
Abstract: This study examines the relationship between parenting stress and psychological wellbeing among parents of autistic children, with a specific focus on gender differences. A quantitative correlational design was employed with a sample of 59 parents (32 females, 27 males) of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Data were collected using the Parenting Stress Scale (Berry & Jones, 1995) [2] and the Psychological Well-Being Scale (Ryff & Keyes, 1995) [10]. Results from Pearson correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between parenting stress and psychological wellbeing (*r* = .087, *p* = .511), indicating these constructs operate independently within this population. Independent samples t-tests showed no significant gender difference in parenting stress scores (*t*(57) = 0.207, *p* = .837). However, a significant gender difference was found in psychological wellbeing (*t*(57) = 3.866, *p*<.001), with fathers reporting substantially higher levels than mothers. The findings suggest that while stress levels are similar across genders, psychological wellbeing is significantly more compromised in mothers, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive interventions that address both stress management and wellbeing enhancement separately, with particular attention to the structural and psychosocial factors disproportionately affecting mothers.
DOI: 10.22271/27103919.2026.v6.i1a.66
Pages: 01-06 | Views: 71 | Downloads: 22
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How to cite this article:
Anshida Jasmin M and Sruthy M. Stress and psychological wellbeing among parents of autistic children. International Journal of Autism. 2026; 6(1): 01-06. DOI: 10.22271/27103919.2026.v6.i1a.66
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