The Impact of Group Psychoeducation for Mothers of Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) describes a group of permanent movement and posture disorders resulting from injury to the developing brain, affecting muscle movement and coordination. It causes lifelong physical and cognitive impairments. Objectives: This study examined the effects of a group psychoeducational intervention on anxiety, depression, and quality of life in mothers of children with CP. Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved 50 mothers (25 in the intervention group and 25 in the control group) of children with CP aged 2 - 11 years. Mothers in both groups completed the Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Short Form-36 health survey before and after the interventions. The intervention group received a 5-session (1 hour per session), weekly psychoeducational program that provided information about CP, stress management techniques, problem-solving skills, and social support. The control group received no intervention during this period. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 2 months post-intervention to evaluate outcomes. Results: Psychoeducation significantly reduced anxiety and depression and improved quality of life compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Also, group × time interactions were significant for all dependent variables (P < 0.001). Conclusions: A brief group psychoeducational intervention effectively decreased anxiety and depression and enhanced the quality of life in mothers of children with cerebral palsy.