Parental Competence and Parental Self-Efficacy in Parents of Children With ASD: Exploring Differences and Overlaps
List of Authors
Majed Alklaib, Low Hui Min
Keyword
Parents of children with ASD, Parental Competence, Parental Self-Efficacy, Assessment tools, Differences and Overlaps
Abstract
This review explores the conceptual and practical importance of parental competence (PC) and parental self-efficacy (PSE) in parents of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It delves into how parental self-efficacy (PSE) in parenting is linked to their actual parenting practices that facilitate their child's adaptation and foster a strong bond with the parents. Despite the conceptual similarities between these constructs, they possess fundamental differences in terms of components and methods of measurement. This review underscores a shared goal of PC and PSE in enhancing positive outcomes for children while highlighting key distinctions between them, such as the influence of parental emotional well-being. A thorough evaluation of parental behaviors can assist educators in developing approaches that support optimal child development, underscoring the need for longitudinal and cross-cultural research to deepen our understanding of parenting constructs across different contexts.