Abstract
The parenting experience of parents of children with disabilities is unique, encompassing both positive and challenging aspects. Parental mentalization (PM), the ability of parents to interpret and understand their children’s inner world, has been identified as a crucial factor benefiting both parents and their children. However, the literature on PM in parents of children with disabilities would benefit from greater organization. This scoping review aims to address this gap by examining the existing research on PM in this population. The study was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The review included studies retrieved from five databases: PsycNet, PubMed, MEDLINE, ProQuest, and EBSCO. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were peer-reviewed, published in English, and examined the PM abilities of parents of children with developmental disabilities. A total of 27 studies were identified, coded, and analyzed to generate key themes, including: (1) comparison of PM between groups, (2) associations between PM and demographic characteristics, (3) PM-focused interventions, and (4) variables associated with PM. The discussion highlights gaps in the current literature, offers recommendations for future research, and provides practical implications for supporting the PM of parents of children with disabilities.