Exploring yoga attitudes and social influences among mothers of autistic children through the theory of planned behavior

Abstract

Background

Mothers of autistic children face physiological and psychological health concerns and encounter significant barriers to engaging in health-enhancing behaviors. While yoga may improve physical and emotional well-being in parents with children with disabilities, research on yoga programs designed specifically for mothers of autistic children remains limited. Developing accessible and motivating yoga interventions requires an understanding of attitudes toward yoga within this population.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore the attitudes of mothers of autistic children toward yoga and investigate how yoga was perceived within their social environment.

Methods

The Theory of Planned Behavior guided this descriptive-qualitative study, in which participants were mothers (N = 12) of autistic children aged 3–22 years. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using line-by-line thematic analysis.

Results

Three major themes were constructed: (1) Positive beginnings with yoga; (2) Yoga's impact on holistic well-being; and (3) Influence of social circles on yoga attitudes.

Conclusions

Mothers expressed positive attitudes towards yoga, influenced by their past experiences and perceived benefits. Yoga was positively regarded within mothers' social networks, which reinforced their attitudes. Despite positive attitudes and supportive subjective norms, most mothers were not actively practicing yoga. This suggests the need to explore potential barriers, which may restrict mothers’ participation in yoga.