The Relationship of Attributions and Personal Well-Being in Parents of Preschool Children with Disabilities

This study examined the relationship between the attributions held by mothers and fathers regarding their preschool child with disabilities. In addition, the study addressed parental well-being and the relationship between attributions and well-being. The subjects were 27 couples whose preschool children with disabilities attended the same educational program. We interviewed each parent independently in the home regarding his or her attributions. In addition, each parent completed the Personal Well-Being Index developed by Dunst and Trivette (1985). Results indicated that 85% of mothers and 74% of fathers asked themselves “Why me?” upon finding out that their child was disabled. At the time of the study (3-5 years later), these percentages had declined to 37% and 33% respectively. Mothers who were still asking “Why me?” tended to show lower levels of overall well-being. Fathers who did not blame fate, the obstetrician, or someone else had higher total personal well-being scores. We have discussed these results, in light of the differences between mothers and fathers and the need to focus future research on the adjustment and perception of individual family members.