Religiosity, Spirituality, and Socioemotional Functioning in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

TitleReligiosity, Spirituality, and Socioemotional Functioning in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2009
AuthorsEkas, N, Whitman, T, Shivers, C
Journal TitleJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Volume39
Pages706–719
Abstract

Abstract Religious beliefs, religious activities, and spirituality are coping resources used by many mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder {(ASD).} This study examined whether and how these resources were related to maternal socioemotional functioning. Mothers of children with {ASD} completed questionnaires assessing religiosity, spirituality, and a wide range of outcome variables, including stress, depression, self-esteem, life satisfaction, positive affect, and sense of control. Analyses revealed that religious beliefs and spirituality were associated with better positive outcomes and, to a lesser extent, lower levels of negative outcomes. Of the two predictors, spirituality accounted for more unique variance in positive outcomes. In contrast, religious activities were related to more negative outcomes and lower levels of positive outcomes.

URLhttp://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10803-008-0673-4
DOI10.1007/s10803-008-0673-4

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