The association between parental neuroticism and behavioral problems of Chinese children with autism spectrum disorder: a moderated mediation model

Objectives: This study examined the direct and indirect effects of parental neuroticism on the internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and how the effect of the mediator (parental burnout) was influenced by the level of family functioning (moderator) in a Chinese context. Methods: Data were collected from a sample of 664 parents of children with ASD in Hubei, Jiangsu, and Shandong provinces using standardized questionnaires to assess parental neuroticism, parental burnout, family functioning, and children’s behavioral problems. Correlation and moderated mediation analysis were employed using the PROCESS macro in SPSS. Results: The findings revealed that parental neuroticism was positively associated with both internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems in children with ASD, with parental burnout serving as a mediator in this relationship. Furthermore, family functioning moderated the impact of parental neuroticism on parental burnout, with lower family functioning exacerbating this effect. Conclusions: These results underscore the importance of addressing parental neuroticism and burnout while enhancing family functioning to improve behavioral outcomes for children with ASD. The study provides valuable insights for developing targeted interventions aimed at supporting families and mitigating behavioral problems in children with ASD.