Examining the relationships of parental stress, family support and family quality of life: A structural equation modeling approach

Abstract Background Research has shown that support for families with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the United States has led to reduce parental stress. To better understand the situation in China, it is crucial to evaluate the current status of family support and provide clear evidence of the impact of family support on positive family outcomes. Aims This study aims to provide initial evidence to examine these interrelations among family support, parental stress, and family quality of life in mainland China. Method A total of 226 parents of children with ASD completed two questionnaires (Beach Center Family Quality of Life (FQOL) Scale and the Family Support Scale for Chinese Children with ASD) and a demographic family information form. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the interrelation among parental stress, family support, and FQOL. Results Parents perceived a moderate to low level of family support and FQOL and high level of parental stress. Family support had a direct positive effect on FQOL (β = .54) and an indirect effect on FQOL through parental stress (β = .06). Conclusion Resources should be devoted to establishing a family support system that promotes FQOL and buffers parental stress for families of children with ASD.