Comparison of Cognitive Flexibility and Resilience Levels in Mothers of Children with Specific Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Normal Development

Abstract

This cross-sectional study compared the cognitive flexibility and resilience of mothers with children having specific learning disabilities (SLD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and normal development (ND). The sample comprised 87 mothers (29 in each group). Data were collected using the “Sociodemographic Information Form”, “Cognitive Flexibility Inventory”, and “Resilience Scale for Adults”. Significant differences were found in cognitive flexibility and resilience among the three groups. Mothers of children with ASD had significantly lower cognitive flexibility scores than those with SLD and ND. In terms of resilience, mothers of children with ASD scored lower than mothers of ND children but did not differ significantly from mothers of SLD children. No significant difference was observed in cognitive flexibility and resilience between mothers of children with SLD and those with ND. The study results indicate that mothers of children with ASD are at risk in terms of cognitive flexibility and resilience, highlighting the need for psychosocial intervention programs for these mothers. Although mothers of children with SLD appear to be psychologically stronger compared to mothers of children with ASD, more detailed research on the subject is necessary.