Maternal Parenting Styles and its Relationship with Emotional-behavioral Problems in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder referred to the Autism Center of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Abstract Background and Aim: The number of children with autism spectrum disorder is increasing and mothers of these children face more parental challenges. On the other hand, few studies have investigated the relationship between parenting styles and emotional behavioral problems in children with autism spectrum disorder. So the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between parenting styles of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders and emotional behavioral problems in these children. Methods: This study is descriptive correlational and was performed on 146 mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (4-13 years old) referred to autism centers in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. The sampling method was available. Standard questionnaires of Baumriand,s parenting styles and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) questionnaire were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using frequency and relative frequency, Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression in spss 21. Results: The findings showed that the dominant parenting style of mothers is authoritative. Also, all children have emotional-behavioral problems, but 63% of children are in non-clinical range and 37% of children are in clinical range. Only authoritative parenting style had a statistically significant relationship with the subscales of anxiety, physical problems, and aggressive behavior. Conclusion: The authoritative parenting style has positive effects on the personality and behavior of children. Therefore, this type of parenting is common in families with the necessary actions. Children are the future activists of society. To prevent psychological and social problems in society, childhood emotional behavioral problems need to be resolved.