AI Summary & Key Takeaways
AI InsightThese findings underscore the urgent need for psychosocial support programs, family-centered care approaches, and social policy interventions, particularly for families of children with severe functional limitations and multiple comorbidities.
📌 3 Key Takeaways
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to assess burnout levels and associated factors among primary caregiver mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Methods: This cross-sectional study included 50 primary caregiver mothers of children aged 2-17 years diagnosed with CP and followed at a university hospital's Pediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic. Data were collected using a Sociodemographic Information Form and the Maslach Burnout Inventory - General Survey (MBI-GS). Statistical analyses employed descriptive statistics, the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and correlation analyses. Results: High levels of emotional exhaustion were found in 68% of the participants, while 58% reported low personal accomplishment. Burnout levels were significantly associated with the child's higher Gross Motor Function Classification System level (especially Level 5), inability to walk, dependency in toileting and feeding, presence of sleep and behavioral problems, comorbid conditions, and the family's perception of low income. No significant relationship was found between burnout and the caregiver's age, education level, or the child's age. Conclusion: Burnout is a common and serious problem among primary caregiver mothers of children with CP. It is strongly linked to the severity of the child's functional status, secondary health problems, and the family's socioeconomic situation. These findings underscore the urgent need for psychosocial support programs, family-centered care approaches, and social policy interventions, particularly for families of children with severe functional limitations and multiple comorbidities.