Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between perceptions of self-efficacy and collective efficacy at the family/community level and mental health status among the families of Special Olympics athletes. The study participants were 96 parents of people with intellectual disabilities. Volunteer coaches in the sports program distributed the questionnaires to parents (who had provided consent) either during the program or after the program ended. The survey results showed that the fathers' perceived efficacies at the family level were significantly higher than the mothers'. For the fathers, self-efficacy and collective efficacy at the community level was significantly related to current mental health status. In comparison, perceptions for all four efficacies (especially collective efficacy at the community level) were significantly related to mental health among the mothers. In conclusion, it may be important to enhance the sense of self-efficacy and collective efficacy of Special Olympics families towards their community related to improve their mental health. Furthermore, development of a Special Olympics sports program that considers the mental health of the family is recommended. Verf.-Referat