A Thematic Analysis of Mothers' Experiences of Emotion Regulation Difficulties in Their Children When Facing Aggressive Behaviors

This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of mothers parenting children with emotion regulation difficulties and accompanying aggressive behaviors, using a qualitative research design grounded in thematic analysis. Fifteen mothers participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews, providing rich narratives about their emotional responses, coping strategies, and the impact of their child’s behavior on family life. Thematic analysis revealed four major themes: the emotional toll of managing aggression, navigating parenting strategies and coping mechanisms, the role of social support and stigma, and shifts in parent-child relationships and broader family dynamics. Mothers reported experiencing chronic stress, emotional exhaustion, persistent feelings of guilt and self-doubt, and profound emotional isolation, often intensified by negative societal judgments. Despite these challenges, participants demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, employing a range of parenting techniques through trial and error, regulating their own emotions during their child’s outbursts, and seeking social support in both formal and informal contexts. The study also highlighted the systemic barriers mothers encountered, such as limited access to professional services and pervasive stigma surrounding childhood behavioral difficulties. Furthermore, the findings emphasized the importance of preserving emotional bonds within the parent-child relationship, even amidst ongoing aggression. These insights underscore the critical need for comprehensive, family-centered interventions that support both children and caregivers, foster empathetic professional practices, and promote public awareness to reduce stigma and enhance support for families navigating these complex emotional and behavioral challenges.

کلیدواژه ها:

Emotion regulation ، Aggressive behavior ، Mothers’ experiences ، Parenting strategies ، Family dynamics ، Qualitative research ، Thematic analysis