J Cantwell1,2, O Muldoon1,2,3, S Gallagher1,2,3. 1. Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland. 2. Center for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland. 3. Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study explored the synergistic relationship between stigma, self-esteem and social support, as predictors of depressive symptomology in parents of children with disabilities (e.g. Autism and Down syndrome). METHOD: One hundred and seventy-three parents (115 parents of children with disabilities and 58 control parents) completed measures of perceived stigma, self-esteem, social support and depressive symptoms. RESULTS: Parents of children with disabilities reported more depressive symptomology; additionally, stigma, self-esteem and social support were associated with depressive symptomology. Moreover, the association between stigma and depressive symptomology was mediated by self-esteem, i.e. parents who reported higher stigma were lower on self-esteem and more depressed. Further, this path varied as a function of emotional support. CONCLUSION: Results highlight the need for tailored interventions that offer parents effective strategies in dealing with stigma through social support and self-esteem.
BACKGROUND: This study explored the synergistic relationship between stigma, self-esteem and social support, as predictors of depressive symptomology in parents of children with disabilities (e.g. Autism and Down syndrome). METHOD: One hundred and seventy-three parents (115 parents of children with disabilities and 58 control parents) completed measures of perceived stigma, self-esteem, social support and depressive symptoms. RESULTS: Parents of children with disabilities reported more depressive symptomology; additionally, stigma, self-esteem and social support were associated with depressive symptomology. Moreover, the association between stigma and depressive symptomology was mediated by self-esteem, i.e. parents who reported higher stigma were lower on self-esteem and more depressed. Further, this path varied as a function of emotional support. CONCLUSION: Results highlight the need for tailored interventions that offer parents effective strategies in dealing with stigma through social support and self-esteem.
Authors: Dominique H Como; Lucía I Floríndez; Christine F Tran; Sharon A Cermak; Leah I Stein Duker Journal: Nurs Health Sci Date: 2019-06-25 Impact factor: 1.857