Psychological resilience and parents’ engagement in paediatric physiotherapy

Introduction
Parental involvement in pediatric physiotherapy is a fundamental component of the family-centered paradigm and falls within the contemporary interdisciplinary model of early intervention. The active participation of parents in the therapy process augments its efficacy. The personal trait of resilience significantly increases the likelihood of parental involvement. This study aims to examine the correlation between resilience and the extent of carer involvement in a child's physiotherapy.

Material and methods
We conducted a survey involving 41 carers of children with developmental disabilities who were undergoing physiotherapy process. Diagnostic survey methods were employed to gather data, utilizing the following instruments: Resilience Scale 25, the Author's Survey Questionnaire for Child Carers, and the Author's Survey Questionnaire for Physiotherapists.

Results
The findings indicated a relationship between resilience and the level of involvement in the child's physiotherapy process. Resilience-enhancing factors such as openness to experience, a sense of humor, proactive coping strategies, and perseverance were identified as significant contributors.

Conclusions
Resilience can play a pivotal role in determining the degree of carer involvement in a child's physiotherapy. Parents should actively participate in the therapeutic process. Workshops to cultivate resilience should be included in the support offer, as they can enhance the prospects of therapeutic success. Trust-based, empathetic communication with the physiotherapist is vital during the rehabilitation process, fostering parental competence and instilling a sense of parental empowerment.