The predictors of uncertainty in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder

ABSTRACT

This study sought to investigate the predictors of uncertainty in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. Sixty-seven participants were evaluated via self-reported measurements with respect to their levels of uncertainty, social support, and trust in health professionals, as well as in terms of the developmental levels and occupational performance of their children. Data regarding the mothers’ educational levels and the length of time each mother had known her child’s diagnoses were also collected. The results showed that the mothers’ appraisal support was the best predictor of their levels of uncertainty, accounting for 22.4% of the variance in uncertainty (F_(1,65) = 18.75, p < .001). Appraisal support together with both the level of trust in health professionals and educational level accounted for 36.1% of the variance in uncertainty (F_(3,63) = 11.86, p < .001). These findings suggest that much of such mothers’ uncertainty is preventable.