Parental Self-Compassion and Psychological Distress in Families of Children with Language and Speech Disorders: A Mixed-Methods Study in the Greek Context

TL;DR

This study in Greece shows that parental self-compassion can reduce psychological distress in parents of children with language and speech disorders.

Contribution

The study introduces a mixed-methods approach to explore self-compassion's role in Greek families of children with communication disorders.

Findings

Higher self-compassion was linked to lower depression, anxiety, and stress in parents.

Parents reported emotional burdens and a need for structured emotional support systems.

Coping strategies varied between adaptive and maladaptive approaches.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Parents of children with language and speech disorders frequently face elevated psychological distress, which may hinder their caregiving capacity and overall well-being. In the Greek context, where research in this area remains limited, this study aimed to explore the relationship between parental self-compassion and psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) among families of children diagnosed with such disorders. Methods: A mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 150 parents (aged 27–55) using the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21). Additionally, qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews to gain deeper insight into parents’ emotional experiences, coping strategies, and support needs. Results: Quantitative analyses demonstrated a significant negative correlation between self-compassion and levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The qualitative findings revealed themes of emotional burden, adaptive and maladaptive coping mechanisms, and the need for structured emotional support systems. Conclusions: The findings underscore the protective role of self-compassion in mitigating psychological distress among parents of children with communication disorders. Integrating self-compassion training and emotional support into family-centered intervention programs may enhance both parental well-being and child developmental outcomes.