Predictors of life satisfaction in fathers of children with cerebral palsy.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the determinants of life satisfaction among fathers of children diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: A total of 122 children diagnosed with CP and their fathers were included in the study. Sociodemographic data and clinical characteristics of the children with CP and their fathers were recorded in the Personal Information Form. The life satisfaction level of the fathers was assessed using the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). The Gross Motor Function Classification System was used to assess the motor function in children with CP. RESULTS: The results of the study showed that fathers' SWLS score was significantly correlated with time to diagnosis of child (TDC) with CP (r=-0.394), the number of siblings (NSC) (r=-0.213), and children's motor function level (r=-0.270) (p<0.05). According to the results of multiple regression analysis, children's motor function level, NSC, and TDC were found to be independent and significant predictors of SWLS, explaining 20% of the variance (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Fathers' life satisfaction was significantly affected in families with children with CP. In addition, children's motor function level, NSC, and TDC were found to be determinants of fathers' life satisfaction.