Influence of Early Inclusion and Parental Employment on Stress and Coping Among Families of Children with Down Syndrome in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, this cross-sectional study investigates the connection between parental stress levels and inclusive education initiatives among families with children with Down syndrome. The study specifically looks at the effects of parental job status and early vs delayed enrolment in inclusive education on stress and coping strategies. Snowball sampling was used to choose 98 parents from five districts' worth of intervention centres. A demographic information sheet, the Brief COPE Inventory, and the Parental Stress Scale (PSS) were used to gather data. According to statistical analysis, parents of children participating in inclusive and early therapeutic interventions expressed far less stress than parents of children receiving delayed intervention. Non-working parents had higher levels of stress, but they also relied more on coping techniques such emotional support, denial, and religious practices. Gender-based data revealed no variance, however working moms reported increased stress as a result of juggling caring and workplace duties. The study emphasizes the value of timely educational inclusion and tailored support networks in reducing parental stress and promoting psychological well-being. Implications include regulatory changes, carer support programs, and the broad deployment of inclusive education to benefit both children with Down syndrome and their families.