The Role of Behavioral Problems and Adaptive Functions in Children with Developmental Delays on the Psychological Distress of Mothers

The present study aimed to investigate the role of behavioral problems and adaptive functions of primary school children with developmental delays on the psychological distress of mothers. The present research was a descriptive-correlational study. The statistical population consisted of children aging 6-11 years old with developmental delays, including those with autism who sought help at rehabilitation centers, and also students with special needs in Tabriz, Iran, during the academic year 2014-2015. Using the convenience sampling method, 100 participants were selected. Children's mothers completed the Aberrant Behavior Checklist, short form of Mental Symptoms Test, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, and Parents’ Stress Index. Data were analyzed through multiple regression in SPSS. Results showed that there is a positive relationship between components of behavioral problems and adaptive functions in children with developmental delays and the psychological distress of their mothers. Behavioral problems and adaptive functions predicted 25% and 63% of the variance in psychological distress, respectively. The findings indicated that psychological distress is more common among mothers of children with developmental delays, which may be due to behavioral problems and low adaptive functions among these children