Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Parents of Autistic Children in Pakistan

This randomized controlled trial evaluated a culturally adapted mindfulness-based intervention for Pakistani parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Sixty-eight parents were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a mindfulness-based intervention (n = 23), an active psychoeducation comparator (n = 23), or a waitlist control (n = 22). The mindfulness-based intervention and psychoeducation programs were delivered in eight weekly group sessions. Participants completed assessments at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and one month after the intervention. The study examined changes in mindfulness, self-compassion, and parenting stress among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder.

Inclusion Criteria: * Inclusion Criteria Participants were eligible if they were: (1) a primary caregiver (mother or father) of a child with a clinician-confirmed DSM-5 diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder; (2) aged 18 years or older; (3) residing in or able to access the intervention center in Bahawalpur; (4) able to attend all eight weekly group sessions; and (5) able to communicate in spoken or written Urdu or English. Exclusion Criteria Participants were excluded if they were: (1) receiving individual psychotherapy or another structured group psychological intervention at the same time; (2) had an active severe psychiatric diagnosis, such as psychosis or suicidality; or (3) their child was not living in the family home or was in residential care. Exclusion Criteria: \-