Predictors of parenting stress in families of children with spina bifida

Examining predictors of stress in a diverse population of caregivers of children with spina bifida, we examined whether any of the same factors characterized caregivers who choose to access available support services. Participants were caretakers of 56 children with spina bifida, ages 1-17 years, who completed paper-and-pencil measures of parenting stress and social support. Multiple regression analyses revealed that maternal age emerged as the sole predictor of parenting stress, with older mothers reporting higher stress. Caregivers with higher stress related to child interaction were less likely to participate in support services. Findings were interpreted to suggest that traditional models of family support and outreach might not be sufficient to reach caregivers who report higher stress. In addition to family-centered early intervention, families might need sustained support throughout their children's school years.