the Role of Problem Solving in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Mothers With Autistic Children

The Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Psychological Distress Among Mothers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Role of Problem-Solving Appraisal

Cognitive behavioral therapy sessions can effectively reduce distress in mothers of children with autism. here we emphasize on the role of problem solving appraisal in CBT sessions to improve problem solving skills ability and minimize psychological distress . pre- intervention assessment (T1) for all participants , then designed 8 sessions for study group will apply .

post intervention assessment (T2) will conduct immediately after CBT sessions

mothers of children with autistic spectrum disorders have a lots of burdens due to child symptoms its, lack of availability of services and limited resources , thus in turn lead them to become unable to face problems/stressors and to be psychological distress. CBT is an effective therapy to minimize stress, anxiety and depression. Mothers who participated in the study recruited from three governmental hospitals that has an out patients clinics specialized in autism and other developmental disorders for children at ElBehairah governate , Egypt . Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria for mothers and their children, mothers informed about the nature of the study and their benefits for participations. assessment tools will use ; depression ,anxiety and stress scale (DAS) and problem solving inventory (PSI). First assessment will occur , then randomly the participants divide into either study ( intervention) group or control group .CBT sessions will provide for study group to enhance their problem solving ability and psychological state. Second assessment (T2) will occur after finishing program sessions for all participants

Inclusion Criteria:

Mothers caregivers who have:

• A child with autism spectrum disorders diagnosed science at least 6 months , and her/ his diagnosis done by a psychiatrist
• Just one child with autistic disorder
• Their ages between 20-50 years old
• Did not expose to previous interventional / rehabilitation programs for his/her child.

Exclusion Criteria for mothers:

• have a diagnosis of any of psychiatric disorders
• Being absent more than three sessions in study group

Exclusion criteria for children: if they have:

• Intelligence level below 70
• Have severe deterioration
• Receive psychiatric medication
• Have multiple disorders