Psychological Challenges for Greek Families With and Without Members Having Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in the Post-COVID-19 Era: A Pathway Analysis

Abstract

This study examined the interrelations among anxiety, meaning in life, self-efficacy, and resilience in Greek families with and without members having Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) during the post-COVID-19 era. The sample consisted of 472 participants, with a mean age of 37.6 years. Data were collected using a Self-Report Questionnaire, the Spielberger State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Meaning in Life Questionnaire, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Resilience Scale. Descriptive statistics and pathway analysis were employed to assess both levels and structural relations among variables. Participants reported high levels of meaning in life, self-efficacy, and resilience, along with relatively low anxiety. Pathway analysis revealed significant correlations among the constructs, confirming that resilience mediated the effects of meaning in life and self-efficacy on anxiety. Although families with members with SEND experienced greater emotional strain, they activated protective mechanisms such as meaning in life, self-efficacy, and resilience to preserve psychological balance and mental health in the aftermath of the pandemic. These findings highlight the importance of salutogenic and strength-based perspectives in supporting family adaptation and well-being in postcrisis contexts.