Fatigue, parenting stress, self-efficacy and satisfaction in mothers of infants and young children

Background: Fatigue is a common health concern reported by mothers of infants and young children, yet little is understood about how fatigue may impact on parenting. Objective: The aim of the study was to explore the associations between fatigue, parenting self-efficacy (PSE) and parenting satisfaction, where parenting stress mediates this relationship. The moderating influence of several contextual factors was also assessed. Method: A sample of 1022 Australian mothers of children aged 0-6 years completed a survey on fatigue, wellbeing and parenting. Results: Path analysis revealed that the relationship between fatigue and PSE was fully mediated by parenting stress, while the relationship between fatigue and parenting satisfaction was partially mediated by parenting stress. Child gender, employment status, family structure and socioeconomic status did not moderate these relationships. Conclusion: Fatigue is a serious health concern for mothers that has potential to adversely affect their level of parenting stress, parenting beliefs and behaviour. Implications for the provision of information and support to manage parent fatigue are discussed.