Investigating the Relationship Between Self-Compassion and Parenting Stress in Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Having a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder, poses numerous challenges for parents. These parents experience high levels of parenting stress, resulting in a diminished quality of life. This study aimed to examine the relationship between self-compassion and parenting stress among parents of children with ASD. This descriptive-analytical study was carried out in 2022–2023. The study included 112 parents of children with ASD who sought assistance from autism centres in Isfahan, Iran, and were selected via convenience sampling method. Data collection involved a three-part tool: a demographic information questionnaire, the self-compassion questionnaire (SCS) and the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form (PSI-SF). The results revealed that the majority (60.7) of parents of children with autism had low self-compassion levels. Additionally, more than 88 of participants had moderate to high levels of parenting stress. Pearson's correlation coefficient indicated that as self-compassion increased among parents of children with autism, parenting stress levels decreased (r = −0.788, p < 0.001). The study demonstrated a significant and negative relationship between self-compassion and parenting stress among parents of children with ASD. Therefore, it is recommended that care plans for this group of parents prioritize the promotion of self-compassion as an effective coping strategy against stress. © 2025 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.