Family life problems, daily caregiving activities, and the psychological well-being of mothers of mentally retarded children

Problematic situations experienced by mothers of mentally retarded children and those characteristics of retarded children that may influence family life problems were examined. Thirty mothers had a mentally retarded child and 30 had only nonretarded children. Home interviews and follow-up telephone interviews were conducted on seven separate evenings. Comparisons revealed group differences in children's characteristics and in duration of maternal involvement in child-oriented activities. No overall group differences in maternal well-being emerged. Child welfare issues and restrictive time demands were the most intense family problems reported by mothers with retarded children. Ratings of more intense family problems were associated with more time spent with the child and more symptoms of maternal depression.