The Effectiveness of a Group- based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Psychological Problems Mothers of Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Mothers of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder face significant stressors and challenges; however, little research has investigated ways to effectively address their psychological distress and adjustment issues. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Acceptance and commitment therapy in reducing the psychological problems of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. The present study was a sub - experimental study with pre-test and post-test design and a control group. The study statistical population included all the mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder referred to Psychiatry Institute of Tehran in 2016 who overall, 30 mothers were selected through purposive non-random sampling method based on specialist diagnosis, and clinical interview. Then participants were randomly allocated into two experimental and control groups. The instrumentals of this study were Acceptance and Action Questionnaire, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, Positive Aspects of Caregiving, and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire who participants completed in pre-test and post-test. Descriptive statistical methods and covariance analysis were used for analysis of the data. The results of covariance analysis showed that Group- based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy was effective in reducing Psychological Problems of experimental group in post- test stage (P< 0005/0). Group- based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can be effective in improving mental health of mothers of autistic children.