Parental Burnout in Mothers of Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Narrative Review of Risk Factors and Interventions

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Master Degree in Department of Physical Therapy for Pediatrics Faculty of Physical Therapy Cairo University

2 Assistant Professor at Department of Faculty of Physical therapy Cairo University

3 Lecturer of Pediatric Physical Therapy Faculty of Physical Therapy Cairo University

4 Dr (Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Graduate Studies of Education Cairo University) Employment

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Parental burnout (PBO) is marked by overwhelming fatigue, emotional detachment, and feelings of inadequacy in the parental role. Mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP) are particularly vulnerable due to the continuous and intensive nature of caregiving.

Objective: To synthesize evidence on the risk factors and interventions related to PBO in mothers caring for children with CP.

Methods: A narrative review was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar (2010–2023). Twenty-five studies addressing PBO or caregiver burden in CP were included.

Results: Major predictors of burnout include high severity of disability, comorbid medical complications, lack of social support, financial constraints, and limited access to respite care. Interventions such as peer support groups, mindfulness practices, and structured respite programs showed encouraging outcomes but were rarely assessed longitudinally.

Conclusion: PBO is disproportionately high among mothers of children with CP. Addressing this issue requires longitudinal, multicenter, and culturally sensitive research, alongside policy and clinical interventions to support caregivers

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