THE IMPACT OF MINDFULNESS-BASED COGNITIVE BEHAVIOR THERAPY (MBCT) ON REDUCING CAREGIVER BURDEN AND PARENTAL STRESS IN PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Abstract

Objectives: This study intended to examine the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) in reducing parental stress and caregiver burden among parents of children with special needs.

Design of the study: A single-group pre–post intervention design was employed.

Place and duration of the study: Feb to May, 2024 Rawalpindi.

Sample and Method: The participants were selected through the purposive sampling method from special education institutes in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. A total of 20 parents were selected for the study. The participants were required to complete the Parental Stress Scale (PSS) and the Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) before and after the eight-week group-based MBCT intervention.

Results and conclusion: Results indicated statistical significance in the reduction of parental stress and caregiver burden after the intervention. The results of this study indicate that MBCT can prove to be an effective psychological intervention for the emotional well-being of mothers of children with special needs. This study supports the inclusion of mindfulness-based interventions in the support of caregivers in Pakistan and other similar cultures.