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Maternal adaptation to a child's epilepsy
Cheryl P Shore1, Joan K Austin, David W Dunn
1Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5107, USA. cpshore@iupui.edu
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|July 17, 2004
Summary
Maternal adaptation to childhood epilepsy is complex. Child behavior issues and family satisfaction significantly impact mothers, not just the child's seizure condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychology
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Mothers of children with epilepsy face adaptation challenges.
- Factors influencing maternal adaptation to childhood epilepsy are not fully understood.
- Existing research lacks comprehensive articulation of these influencing factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate associations between maternal/child characteristics, maternal beliefs, and adaptation outcomes.
- To explore the mediating role of maternal beliefs in adaptation.
- To identify key factors impacting maternal adaptation to a child's epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- A conceptual model was developed based on existing literature.
- Data collected from 156 maternal-child dyads via structured telephone interviews.
- Multiple regression analysis employed to test for additive and mediated relationships.
Main Results:
- Maternal beliefs did not statistically mediate the relationships.
- Child behavior problems demonstrated a strong association with maternal adaptation outcomes.
- Maternal satisfaction with family and maternal learned helplessness were also significantly linked to adaptation.
Conclusions:
- Maternal adaptation to a child's epilepsy is multifactorial.
- Child behavior problems are a critical factor, alongside family satisfaction and learned helplessness.
- Interventions should consider these broader psychosocial factors for supporting mothers.