Family Support and Parenting Self-Efficacy in Mothers of Children With Autism, With Value of Children as Mediating Variable

The presence of a child with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) can significantly impact both parents, particularly mothers, who often serve as primary caregivers. This study examined the relationship between family support and parenting self-efficacy, with the value of children as a mediating variable. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used with 248 mothers of children with ASD selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using three adapted psychological scales: (1) Parenting Self-Efficacy Scale (PSE-33, α = .919), (2) Value of Children Scale (VoC-15, λ = .65–.76), and (3) Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL-12, λ = .64–.93). Correlation and mediation analyses were conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) with AMOS. The model showed acceptable fit across indices, including Chi-square, RMSEA, CMIN/DF, TLI, and GFI. Findings supported all three hypotheses: family support positively influenced the value of children (a = .248), the value of children positively affected parenting self-efficacy (b = .30), and the value of children mediated the relationship between family support and parenting self-efficacy (c = .414). These results highlight the importance of family support and parental beliefs about children’s value in enhancing parenting self-efficacy, suggesting directions for culturally sensitive interventions for mothers of children with ASD.