The Effectiveness of Parent Counseling in Reducing Parental Burnout Among Caregivers of Children with ADHD and ASD

Abstract

Parental burnout is a prevalent issue among caregivers of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), driven by the unique caregiving demands these conditions entail. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a two-and-a-half-month parent counseling program in reducing burnout among 12 parents—7 of children with ASD and 5 of children with ADHD. A mixed-methods approach assessed parental burnout through pre- and post-intervention Parental Burnout Inventory (PBI) scores and qualitative interviews. Results indicated a significant reduction in burnout levels, with mean PBI scores dropping from 78.4 to 45.6. Parents of children with ADHD exhibited faster improvements, likely due to the immediate applicability of behavioral strategies. Qualitative insights revealed enhanced understanding of the child’s condition, improved emotional regulation, and strengthened parent-child relationships. The findings underscore the importance of tailored counseling interventions in mitigating parental stress and fostering healthier family dynamics.