Effectiveness of Implementing the Positive Thinking Modeling and Mindfulness Training Program in Depressed Caregivers of Autistic Children.

Long-term caregivers of children with autism may develop to depression. This study aimed to compare the mean scores for depression and positive thinking of caregivers of autistic children at baseline and at one month after receiving the positive thinking modeling and mindfulness training program. The sample included 30 caregivers of autistic children who were purposively selected. Data were collected using the Depression Scale-9Q and the Positive Thinking Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results of the study revealed that, Mean scores for depression in autistic children’s caregivers, after receiving the positive thinking modeling and mindfulness training program, were significantly lower than before receiving the program (p < .001). Mean scores for positive thinking of autistic children’s caregivers, after receiving the positive thinking modeling and mindfulness training program, were significantly higher than before receiving the program (p < .001). The results of this study show that the positive thinking modeling and mindfulness training program can reduce depression symptoms and increase the positive thinking of caregivers of autistic children. Therefore, it should be used to assist autistic children’s caregivers who are depressed.