Building Resilience in mothers caring for neurodivergent children: A Multi-Framework Approach using Personal Resources and Self-Regulation

In the UK, approximately one in seven people may be neurodivergent. Parent caregivers of neurodivergent children frequently experience elevated stress, anxiety, affiliate stigma, isolation, and reduced social support, which negatively impact their homelife, careers and workforce participation. Employing conservation of resources (COR) theory and regulatory mode, this PhD study sought practical approaches to improve mothers' resilience and coping mechanisms. Two research gaps were identified: the associations between COR and regulatory mode, and the potential application of these theories in supporting mothers who care for neurodivergent children. To address these issues, cross-sectional, semi-structured in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 19 mothers. The results identified links between COR and regulatory mode. Data and results identified links between COR and regulatory mode. Key resources and four novel resource passageways, including a conceptual opening passageway, were determined. The study contradicts previous findings on long-term time investments and validates the relevance of the crossover model and broaden-and-build mechanism for this cohort. Practical strategies for supporting mothers caring for neurodivergent children are identified. Findings both extend and challenge the COR and regulatory mode frameworks. Proposals to support parents of neurodivergent children expand the use of the two frameworks, and findings add to COR and regulatory mode literature by understanding how these parents handle life stressors. The outcomes potentially aid other caregivers and employers by offering targeted guidance and interventions to bolster resilience and coping strategies.