CBT Group Counseling Services to Reduce Parenting Stress in Parents of Students with Disabilities

Abstract

Parenting stress is a psychologically and physiologically adverse condition arising from stressors encountered in child-rearing. This study involved seven guardians of students with special needs at SMALB X in Surabaya, Indonesia. Psychological assessment was conducted through observation, interviews, and the Parenting Stress Scale (PSS), which served as both pre- and post-intervention screening. Additionally, the Subjective Unit of Distress Scale (SUDS) was administered to track progress per session. Following cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based group counseling, post-test PSS scores significantly decreased compared to baseline. Participants demonstrated improved stress management, greater self-awareness, and reduced self-blame. They also recognized that their previous coping mechanisms had exacerbated difficulties rather than alleviated them. Notably, participants developed a more optimistic outlook, acknowledging their strengths and committing to constructive behavioral changes. Furthermore, they expressed greater responsibility in supporting their children with special needs, understanding that they were not alone in facing such challenges.