The relationship between time perspective and hardiness in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder

Context and Relevance. Cognitive and affective appraisal of events at different periods of life largely affects emotional well-being and resilience to stressful situations. However, the specific features of the relationship between time perspective (TP) and hardiness in parents of children with disabilities (including autism spectrum disorder (ASD)) remain insufficiently studied. Objective: To identify the features of the relationship between time perspective and hardiness in mothers of children with ASD, for use in the development of psychological assistance programs. Hypotheses: The level of hardiness among mothers of children with ASD will be lower than that of mothers of typically developing children and mothers of children with Down syndrome (DS); 2) The structure of time perspective among mothers of children with ASD will differ from that of the other groups; 3) The specific relationships between time perspective and hardiness scales among mothers of children with ASD will differ significantly from the relationships observed in the groups of mothers of children with Down syndrome and children without disabilities. Methods and materials. The sample of 111 respondents was represented by three groups of women raising children with ASD, children with DS, and children without disabilities. The following methods were used: the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI) and the Hardiness Test. Results. The level of hardiness in mothers of children with ASD is lower than in mothers of typically developing children and mothers of children with DS. To increase the level of hardiness in mothers of children with ASD, work should be carried out to process negative past events. The use of therapy based on the time TP model may be effective in alleviating stress symptoms and improving the psychological state of parents of children with ASD. Conclusions. The level of hardiness in mothers of children with ASD is lower than in mothers of typically developing children and mothers of children with DS. To increase the level of hardiness in mothers of children with ASD, work should be carried out to process negative past events. The use of therapy based on the TP model may be effective in alleviating stress symptoms and improving the psychological state of parents of children with ASD.

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