Predictors of Depression and Well-being in Caregivers of Young Children with Developmental Delays in Vietnam

Abstract

The present study examined the impact of social support and other variables on depression experienced by the caregivers of young children with developmental delays in Vietnam. We conducted a survey of 109 caregivers of children with developmental delays who were enrolled in kindergarten programs in Hanoi, Vietnam. The survey included questionnaires on the availability of informal and professional support, perceived social support, and depression. The results suggest that the more the caregivers felt that they received support, the less depression they experienced. However, the amount of informal or professional support was not significantly related to depression. The more maladaptive behaviors their children manifested, the more depressed the caregivers were. The findings suggest that there is a need for services and supports that not only help caregivers to be effective parents but also address feelings of distress that stem from parenting children with disabilities.