Bibliotherapy-Based Psychoeducation for Parents of Children With Special Needs

Parents of children with special needs often experience high levels of emotional and physical stress due to the unique caregiving demands placed upon them. In addition to this stress, many parents struggle with feelings of shame, self-blame, and social isolation linked to stigma-both from society and internalized beliefs. These challenges can negatively affect their mental health, parenting confidence, and overall well-being.

This study investigates whether a psychoeducation program based on bibliotherapy-a therapeutic approach that uses storytelling and literature to promote emotional healing-can provide meaningful support to parents in these circumstances. The program involves specially selected books and guided discussions that encourage reflection, self-awareness, and emotional expression, helping parents better cope with their experiences.

The study is a single group pre-post test trial conducted with parents of children diagnosed with special needs. Participants are selected based on their voluntary. The program consists of a series of structured sessions that combine reading materials with group discussions and psychoeducational content delivered by trained professionals.

The main outcomes assessed in the study include:

Parenting Stress: The level of stress related specifically to the role of being a parent.

Parental Stigma: Feelings of shame, guilt, or self-judgment related to societal or internalized stigma.

Validated scales and questionnaires are used to measure these outcomes before and after the intervention. The study aims to demonstrate that the bibliotherapy-based approach can reduce stress and stigma while supporting healthier self-perception in parents.

By integrating literature into emotional support, this project seeks to offer a creative, accessible, and culturally adaptable method for improving the well-being of parents of children with special needs.

Inclusion criteria

• Parent or legal guardian of a child diagnosed with special needs (e.g., developmental disability, autism, chronic illness).
• Aged 18 years or older.
• Willing to participate in a bibliotherapy-based psychoeducation program.
• Able to read and understand the language used in the intervention materials.
• Provides informed consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion criteria

• Currently receiving structured psychological therapy for parenting stress or parental stigma.
• Has a diagnosed severe mental health condition (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) that may interfere with participation.
• Inability to attend scheduled intervention sessions.
• Cognitive impairment that prevents understanding the study materials.
• Refusal or inability to provide informed consent.