Abstract
Parenting children with disabilities, specifically children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), is associated with increased psychological distress and poorer physical functioning (Lovell, Moss, & Wetherell, 2012a; Singer, 2006). The present study reviewed factors that contribute to psychological distress with a focus on those associated with successful coping and adaption. The field of positive psychology and its' clinical application was introduced as an area, that when applied to parents, could contribute to successful coping and improved well-being. Previous research has reported significant improvements in well-being following completion of the positive psychology intervention, Three Good Things (Parks-Sheiner, 2009; Seligman, Steen, Park, & Peterson, 2005). The Three Good Things intervention was reviewed with attention to mechanisms that may account for its' effectiveness. The purpose of the current study was to determine whether the Three Good Things intervention could improve the well-being of parents of children with ASD. Specifically, it was hypothesized that parents who completed the Three Good Things intervention would report significant increases in positive affect and satisfaction with life, deceases in negative affect and depressive symptom, and improved parental competence relative to the control groups. Participants were randomly assigned to the treatment or control group and completed measures at pretest and one week later, at post-test. Results of MANOVA did not support the hypotheses. There were no significant differences between the treatment and control groups on the outcome measures. However, participants reported significant increases in satisfaction with life and parenting efficacy across conditions. Results are discussed in context of limitations regarding study design, specifically the control group task and lack of follow-up assessments. Based on these results and corresponding limitations, suggestions for future research are provided.