Abstract
PURPOSE: Having a child with type 1 diabetes as a stressor causes the use of coping strategies in mothers. The aim of this study was to investigate the coping strategies in mothers of children with type 1 diabetes and their relationship with stress management. METHODS: This study was conducted on mothers of children with type 1 diabetes (N = 180) in Tehran and Karaj (Iran). Data were collected by a multi-sectional questionnaire that its validity and reliability were confirmed. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (v 19) and using statistical tests. RESULTS: The highest mean score was related to problem-focused coping (22.11) and the lowest was related to emotion-focused coping strategies (12.2). Regression model showed that the variables of mother's age, problem- focused coping, and meaning-based coping had a positive effect, and variables of father's age and emotion-focused coping had a negative effect on stress management in mothers. CONCLUSION: Mothers of children with type 1 diabetes can be more successful in their stress management through using problem-focused and meaning-based coping approaches. Hence, the need for continuous education of effective coping strategies to these mothers is felt.