The relationship between parental sense of competence and caregiver burden among mothers of children with cerebral palsy: A cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: This study examined the relationship between parental sense of competence and caregiver burden in mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP).

DESIGN AND

METHODS

This cross-sectional study involved 200 mothers of children aged 6-15 years with CP, recruited from rehabilitation centers and hospitals in Lorestan, Iran, between February and October 2023. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, the Parental Sense of Competence Scale (PSOC), and Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

Mothers reported moderate parental competence (M = 65.2, SD = 7.0), with significantly higher perceived value/comfort (M = 4.0 per item) than skill/knowledge (M = 3.7 per item; Cohen's d = 0.59). Caregiver burden was clinically significant (M = 41.9, SD = 7.0), with 61% of mothers experiencing severe burden. A significant positive correlation was found between total competence and burden (r = 0.171, p = 0.016). In adjusted multivariable models, caregiver burden emerged as the strongest positive predictor of parental competence (β = 0.319, p < 0.001). Part-time employment predicted higher competence (β = 0.236, p = 0.002) and lower burden (β = -0.319, p < 0.001), while full-time employment was linked to increased burden (β = 0.236, p = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Caregiver burden positively predicts parental competence. Higher education and part-time employment serve as protective resources.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Interventions should move beyond burden reduction to holistically support caregiver competence by facilitating access to education, flexible part-time employment, and skills training programs.