Effect of Positive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Intervention on Psychological Well-Being: Case Study of a Mother of Two Intellectually Disabled Children

The present study was carried out to examine the effect of a Positive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Positive CBT) intervention on the psychological well-being, irritability, depression, and anxiety of a mother caring for two children with mild intellectual disabilities. A single-subject case study design was utilized, wherein pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted over a two-month period. The Irritability, Depression, and Anxiety (IDA) Scale by Snaith et al. was administered to measure levels of negative affect, while Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale was used to assess overall well-being. Qualitative data were gathered using a semi-structured interview guide adapted from the Kansas Inventory of Parental Perceptions (KIPP) to understand the mother’s caregiving challenges and positive experiences. Results revealed that, prior to the intervention, the mother reported moderate irritability and high levels of depression and anxiety, along with low psychological well-being. Following the eight-session Positive CBT program, her scores showed a marked decrease in irritability, depression, and anxiety, and a notable increase in psychological well-being. These findings underscore the potential of Positive CBT in enhancing the mental health of caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities. The study highlights the importance of using strength-based therapeutic approaches and offers practical implications for mental health professionals and policy makers to support and empower caregivers in similar contexts.