Psychological adaptation of mothers of children with spina bifida: association with dimensions of social relationships.

Investigated the hypothesis that dimensions of social relationships such as family support, conflict, and control; marital quality/support, social support, and social coping are associated with the psychological adjustment of mothers of children with spina bifida. A representative sample of 66 mothers answered a series of questionnaires including the Family Environment Scale. Dyadic Adjustment Scale, Social Support Questionnaire (6-item form), Social Coping Questionnaire, and SCL-90-R. Results indicated that mothers with more supportive families and marriages and less conflicted and controlling families reported lower levels of psychological symptoms. Coping strategies directed at friends were related to more symptoms.