Mothers’ Parenting Styles and the Association with Family Coping Strategies and Family Adaptation in Families of Children with ADHD

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine how the parenting styles of mothers are associated with the coping strategies and adaptability of families with a child diagnosed with ADHD. Using a cross-sectional research design, data was collected from mothers representing 98 South African families with children diagnosed with ADHD. Significant positive correlations were found between dimensions of the mothers’ authoritative parenting style (connection, autonomy granting and regulation) and the re-evaluation and mobilization of family coping strategies. A regression analysis indicated medication, mothers’ connection and mothers’ regulation as the best predictor variables for family adaptation. The use of medication to help control core ADHD symptoms can benefit families. In order to improve outcomes for parents and children with ADHD, it is also recommended that mothers are taught authoritative parenting skills.
Source: Clinical Social Work Journal - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research