A Comparison of Time Use between Mothers of Children with and without Disabilities

Abstract

This study compared time use, perceptions regarding the meaningfulness and enjoyment of occupations, and perceptions of ability to balance time use between mothers of children with mental retardation (n = 29), motor difficulties (n = 30), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (n = 30), and typical development (n = 31). No significant differences were found between groups in the amount of time spent in various occupations (i.e., activities with their children, home maintenance, leisure, rest and sleep, and work), in their perceptions of meaningfulness and enjoyment of the occupations performed, or in their perceived ability to balance time use. However, mothers who were frequently helped by external caregivers reported significantly more enjoyment from “activities with their children” and “home maintenance,” and significantly less meaning from “rest and sleep” than those who did not. Moreover, mothers who reported that they received frequent help derived more satisfaction from their ability to balance time. These results highlight the importance of mothers' receiving assistance to how they perceive their daily occupations and their ability to balance time, factors that positively affect maternal and family well-being.