Coping Strategies and Parental Stress among Parents of Children with Down Syndrome: Gender, Employment, and the Potential Role of Art

Abstract

This study looked at gender and employment-related disparities in ways to cope and stress levels among parents of children with Down syndrome in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A cross-sectional sample of 100 parents (50 mothers and 50 dads) filled out the Brief COPE Inventory and the Parental Stress Scale (PSS). Independent-samples t-tests revealed that mothers scored significantly higher than fathers on overall coping strategies (M = 101.06, SD = 16.80 vs. M = 90.12, SD = 12.27; t(98) = –3.68, p < .001, d = –0.74), particularly in active coping (t(98) = –5.37, p < .001), venting (t(98) = –3.37, p = .001), positive reframing (t(98) = –4.80, p < .001), and humor (t(98) = –3.41, p = .001). Comparisons based on employment status showed that non-working parents reported significantly higher stress (M = 58.7, SD = 4.70) than working parents (M = 54.00, SD = 5.64; t = –3.99, p < .001, d = –0.90), as well as greater reliance on coping strategies (M = 103.8, SD = 9.77 vs. M = 92.54, SD = 15.89; t = –3.63, p < .001, d = –0.79). Non-working parents showed higher scores on dysfunctional techniques such denial, drug use, and self-blame (p <.05). These data demonstrate that gender and work position have a significant impact on caregiving stress and coping in the Pakistani sociocultural setting. The findings highlight the need of gender-sensitive, culturally responsive, and occupation-inclusive psychological treatments for improving family resilience.

Keywords: Coping Strategies, Parental Stress, Parents of Children, Down Syndrome, Gender, Employment, Potential Role of Art