Self-Compassion, Resilience and Psychological Distress Among Parents of Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Background: Caring for children with cerebral palsy (CP), the most common motor disability in childhood, places a profound psychological, emotional, and physical burden on parents, especially in low-resource contexts like India. Elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and depression have been consistently reported among these caregivers, yet few studies have examined the protective role of self-compassion and resilience in their psychological well-being. Aim: This study aimed to assess the levels of self-compassion, resilience, and psychological distress (depression, anxiety, stress) among parents of children and adolescents with CP in Karnataka, India, and explore their interrelationships. Design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 70 biological parents (51 mothers, 19 fathers) of children and adolescents with CP, recruited through purposive sampling from rehabilitation centers and special schools across Mysore, Bengaluru, and Shimogga. Standardized tools, including the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-25), Neff’s Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), were administered to assess resilience, self-compassion, and psychological distress. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to examine associations among variables. Results and conclusion: Results showed moderate levels of self-compassion (77.1%) and resilience (62.9%) among caregivers. Although descriptive trends suggested that higher resilience and self-compassion were linked to lower depression, anxiety, and stress, no statistically significant associations were found between these protective factors and psychological distress. These findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive interventions targeting self-compassion and resilience in Indian caregivers. Future longitudinal and intervention-based studies are recommended to better understand the mechanisms by which these psychological resources may enhance caregiver well-being and reduce mental health risks.