Problem Solving Ability and Quality of Life of Mothers of Autistic Children

Background and objectives: The current paper examined the relationship between problem solving ability and quality of life of mothers of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) children in Isfahan. Method & Materials: This is a descriptive correlational study.  Population consisted of mothers of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) children in Isfahan. Sample was selected from one autism center out of three using convenient sampling method. Then, a sample of 150 mothers of ASD children was randomly selected and answered 12-item Quality of Life Inventory by Kosinski & Keller (1996) and 35- item Problem Solving Inventory (PSI) by Heppner & Peterson (1988). Data were  analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and stepwise regression analysis. Findings: The results showed that there was a significant relationship between problem solving ability and quality of life (r=0.696, p<0.01). Moreover, there was a significant relationship between the dimensions of the problem solving ability (self-confidence in problem solving (r=0.560, p<0.01), avoidant attachment to problem style (r=0.241, p<0.01) and self-control (r=0.307, p<0.01) and quality of life. Regression analysis also showed that the quality of life is predicted by self-confidence in problem solving (p<0.01), avoidant attachment to problem style (p<0.01) and self-control (p<0.01), with self-confidence in problem solving as the most powerful quality of life predictor. Conclusion: In general, problem solving ability is correlated with quality of life, with problem solving ability dimensions including self-confidence in problem solving, avoidant attachment to problem style and self-control.