Structural Equation Modeling for Quality of Life of Mothers of Children with Developmental Disabilities: Focusing on the Self-Help Model

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to construct and test a predictive model for the quality of life (QOL) in mothers of children with developmental disabilities (DB). The hypothesized model included severity of illness, distress, uncertainty, self-help, and parenting efficacy as influencing factors, QOL as a consequence based on the Braden's Self-Help Model. Methods: The data were collected through a direct and online surveys from 206 mothers in 8 locations, including welfare or daycare centers, developmental treatment centers, and The Parents' Coalition for the Disabled located in two provinces of Korea. Data were analysed using SPSS/WIN 23.0 and AMOS 21.0 program. Results: The fit indices of the predictive model satisfied recommended levels; chi(2) = 165.79 (p < .001), normed chi(2) (chi(2)/df) = 2.44, RMR = .04, RMSEA = .08, GFI = .90, AGFI = .85, NFI = .91, TLI = .93, CFI = .95. Among the variables, distress (beta = -.46, p < .001), parenting efficacy (beta = .22, p < .001), and self-help (beta = .17, p = .018) had direct effects on QOL. Severity of illness (beta = -.61, p = .010) and uncertainty (beta = -.08, p = .014) showed indirect effects. The explanatory power of variables was 61.0%. Conclusion: The study results confirm the utility of Braden's Self-Help Model. They provide a theoretical basis for improving QOL in mothers of children with DB. Nursing intervention strategies that can relieve mothers' distress and uncertainty related to disease and enhance parenting efficacy and self-help behavior should be considered.