The relationship between parental attitude toward childhood epilepsy and spiritual orientation

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between parental attitudes toward childhood epilepsy and spiritual orientations. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted online between May and July 2022 with 417 parents residing in the eastern part of Turkey. Data were collected using a descriptive information form, the Social Attitudes Scale toward Childhood Epilepsies, and the Spiritual Orientation Scale. The obtained data were analyzed using the SPSS software package, employing descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics including independent samples t-test, ANOVA, multiple linear regression and correlation tests. Results: The Total Social Attitudes Scale Score toward Childhood Epilepsies was calculated as 45.10 ± 7.81, and the Spiritual Orientation Scale Score was 89.88 ± 30.30 for parents with an average age of 36.64 ± 8.26. It was found statistically significant and high (p > 0.05) for parents who are female, have a higher level of education, and have previously received education about epilepsy regarding both the Total Social Attitudes Scale Score toward Childhood Epilepsies and the Spiritual Orientation Scale Score. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the Total Social Attitudes Scale Score toward Childhood Epilepsies and the Spiritual Orientation Scale Score. Conclusion: According to the findings of the research, parents' attitudes towards childhood epilepsy are positive, and their spiritual orientation levels are high. As parents' spiritual orientation levels increase, their positive attitudes towards childhood epilepsy also increase.