The Effect of Applied Group Training on Perceived Social Support, Depressive Symptoms, and Self-Compassion Given to Mothers with Children with Autism: a Quasi-Experimental Study

To investigate the effect of applied group training given to mothers of children with autism on perceived social support, depressive symptoms, and self-compassion. The sample of the study, which was conducted quasi-experimentally in non-randomized groups, consisted of 44 mothers of children with autism, 22 in the experimental group and 22 in the control group. A descriptive characteristics form, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Beck Depression Inventory, and Self-Compassion Scale were used to collect data. A total of 48 h of practical group training was given to the mothers over a period of 6 weeks, providing them with an environment where they could interact within the group. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 22.0 program. Number, percentage, mean, standard deviation, repeated measurements t-tests, and complementary Bonferroni tests were used to evaluate the data. There was a significant increase in perceived social support (t = -6.697; p <.001) and self-compassion (t = -8.676; p <.001) scores and a significant decrease in depression scores (t = 4.840; p <.001) of the experimental group. These changes were not statistically significant in the control group (p >.05). It was determined that applied group education could reduce depression levels by increasing the social support perception and self-compassion levels of mothers of children with autism. Future research could examine the short- and long-term effects of such interventions on both caregivers and children with autism. Regular group training can contribute to the psychosocial empowerment of mothers.