Evaluation of family functioning and anxiety-depression parameters in mothers of children with asthma

Background: Psychological problems are more commonly observed in mothers of children with asthma when compared to the general population. Smoking in the house and parental cooperation are the other factors which influence psychological status in mothers of children with asthma. In our study, we aimed to investigate family functioning and frequency of psychological symptoms in mothers of children with asthma. Methods: The study group consisted of 160 mothers of 4-15 year old children with asthma and the control group consisted of 90 mothers of healthy children. Beck's inventory, continuous anxiety inventory and family assessment device were administered to each group of mothers. Results: Results indicated that levels of depression and anxiety symptoms were higher and perception of family functioning was less healthy in mothers of children with asthma compared to those in the control group (p<0.0001). Smoking status at home and level of communication with the father were found to have a significant impact on the evaluation scale in mothers in the case group. Discussion: Psychiatric symptoms observed in mothers of asthmatic children might be associated to influencing the functioning of the entire family rather that of the mother alone. Therefore, evaluation of family functioning in mothers of children with asthma might be beneficial in terms of follow-up and control of disease. (C) 2009 SEICAR Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.