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Johnson K, Deavenport-Saman A, Mamey MR, Sabapathy T, Schrager SM, Vanderbilt DL. Exploring Racial and Ethnic Differences in Parent-Reported Strengths in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:1643-1650. [PMID: 37261713 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01639-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have demonstrated racial/ethnic differences in parental concerns in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, no studies have investigated racial/ethnic differences in parent-reported strengths. The purpose of this study was to explore racial/ethnic differences in parent-reported strengths in children with ASD. DESIGN AND METHODS This was a retrospective cross-sectional study investigating the relationship between parent-reported strengths and race/ethnicity at the time of an ASD diagnosis. Parent-reported strengths were qualitatively clustered into themes, and theme frequencies were quantitatively examined for relationships to race/ethnicity. RESULTS Parents of Caucasian children reported a mean of 5.00 (SD = 2.17) total strengths compared to 3.75 (SD = 2.32) among Hispanic/Latinx children, 3.36 (SD = 1.43) among Asian/PI children, and 3.91 (SD = 2.05) among children from other races/ethnicities. Bivariate linear regression analyses indicated that Asian/PI, Hispanic, and other child race/ethnicity, compared to Caucasian child race/ethnicity, were associated with significantly fewer parent-reported total strengths. Asian/PI and Hispanic child race/ethnicity were associated with significantly fewer personality strengths, while maternal education was associated with a greater number of personality strengths. CONCLUSION This study found racial and ethnic differences in parent-reported strengths in children with ASD. Further, higher levels of maternal education influenced total, personality, and behavioral strengths. Receipt of a greater number of child services was also associated with a greater number of behavioral strengths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Johnson
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, MS#68, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA.
| | - Alexis Deavenport-Saman
- Department of Pediatrics, USC University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, #76, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA
| | | | - Thusa Sabapathy
- The Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of California, Irvine, 2500 Red Hill Ave #100, Santa Ana, CA, 92705, USA
| | - Sheree M Schrager
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
- Graduate Studies and Research, California State University Dominguez Hills, 1000 E. Victoria Street, Carson, CA, 90747, USA
| | - Douglas L Vanderbilt
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Developmental Behavioral-Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, Mailstop #146, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA
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Piro-Gambetti B, Greenlee J, Bolt D, Papp LM, Hartley SL. Parent-couple satisfaction, parent depression, and child mental health in families with autistic children. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1306456. [PMID: 38274421 PMCID: PMC10808708 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1306456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Within two-parent households, the parent-couple subsystem (marital or romantic partner relationship) is posited to shape the mental health of both parents and children. Autistic children and their parents have an elevated-risk for mental health problems. The present study longitudinally examined the mediating role of the quality of the parent-couple relationship in time-ordered pathways between changes in the mental health problems of autistic children and in parent depression symptoms at a within-family level. Methodology Using four time points of data collected on 188 families of autistic children (aged 5-12 years) across 3 years, the bidirectional associations between parent-couple relationship satisfaction, parent depressive symptoms, and child internalizing and externalizing mental health problems were investigated. Two multi-group (grouped by parent gender) complete longitudinal mediation models in structural equation modeling using Mplus software were conducted. Results Parent-couple relationship satisfaction mediated: (1) the association between higher parent depressive symptoms and higher child internalizing mental health problems 12 months later for both mothers and fathers, and (2) the association between higher child externalizing mental health problems and higher father depression symptoms 12 months later. Father depression symptoms mediated a pathway from lower parent-couple satisfaction to higher child internalizing mental health problems 12 months later, and mother depression symptoms mediated the pathway from higher child externalizing mental health problems to lower parent-couple satisfaction 12 months later. Conclusion Findings highlight the bidirectional and complex ways that parent and child mental health and the quality of the parent-couple relationship are entwined across time in families of autistic children. Family-wide interventions that address the needs of multiple family members and family systems are best suited to improve the mental health of parents and autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Piro-Gambetti
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jessica Greenlee
- School of Psychology, Lafayette College, Easton, PA, United States
| | - Daniel Bolt
- School of Educational Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Lauren M. Papp
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Sigan L. Hartley
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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Fong VC, McLaughlin J, Schneider M. "We are exhausted, worn out, and broken": Understanding the impact of service satisfaction on caregiver well-being. Autism Res 2023; 16:2198-2207. [PMID: 37700632 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Few studies exist that have examined the impact of service-related factors and system-level disruptions (i.e., the pandemic) on families of autistic children in Canada using large sample sizes. To address this gap, the goal of this research was to examine the impact of satisfaction with autism services on caregiver stress, controlling for important demographic variables, such as family income, marital status, and child level of support needs. The impact of navigating and accessing services on parent well-being was also explored. A total of 1810 primary caregivers of autistic children or youth living in Ontario, Canada completed a survey with both closed- and open-ended questions in the summer of 2021. A hierarchical multiple regression was conducted to examine the impact of satisfaction with autism services on caregiver stress. Open-ended responses on the survey from a subset of the sample (n = 637) were coded using thematic analysis to understand the impact of navigating and accessing services on parent well-being. Satisfaction with services significantly predicted caregiver stress after controlling for marital support, family income, and child level of support needs. Qualitative analysis revealed impacts of navigating and accessing services in three areas: (1) Physical, (2) Emotional/Psychological, and (3) Financial Well-being. Understanding parent perceptions of satisfaction with services can shed light on strategies for improving services that support parent well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa C Fong
- Department of Health Studies, Wilfrid Laurier University, Brantford, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janet McLaughlin
- Department of Health Studies, Wilfrid Laurier University, Brantford, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margaret Schneider
- Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Adaptation of Parents Raising a Child with ASD: The Role of Positive Perceptions, Coping, Self-efficacy, and Social Support. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:1224-1242. [PMID: 35507296 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05537-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study explored the adaptation of parents raising a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) specifically the contributory role of positive perceptions, coping, self-efficacy, and social support. One hundred and thirty-six parents of children with a diagnosis of ASD completed a battery of self-report questionnaires via an online survey. Using multiple regression analyses positive perceptions, adaptive coping, self-efficacy, and social support were each a significant contributor to one or more positive adaptation outcomes. Multiple moderated regression analysis found no evidence that these factors were significant moderators between behavioural problems and parental adaptation. The implications of these findings in supporting parents raising a child with ASD are outlined.
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5
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Hou Y, Yan T, Zhang J. The relationship between parental involvement and psychological adjustment among Chinese children with autism spectrum disorder in the transition from kindergarten to primary school: A chain-mediating model. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1087729. [PMID: 36891207 PMCID: PMC9986549 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1087729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study examined the impact of parental involvement on the psychological adjustment of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and the role of parenting self-efficacy and parenting stress in the transition from kindergarten to primary school. Methods Using the questionnaires, we collected data from 237 Chinese parents of children with ASD. Results Mediation analyses showed that parental involvement partially promoted the psychological adjustment of children with ASD, which was reflected in the fact that parental involvement promoted children's prosocial behavior but did not reduce their emotional/behavioral problems. Mediation analyses also revealed the role of the mediator in parenting stress between parental involvement and the psychological adjustment of children. Additionally, the results suggested that parenting self-efficacy and parenting stress played a chain-mediating role in the association between parental involvement and psychological adjustment in children with ASD. Discussion These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the relationship between parental involvement and psychological adjustment in children with ASD in the transition from kindergarten to primary school.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Hou
- Early Childhood Education College, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingrui Yan
- Special Education Department, Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junfang Zhang
- School of Special Education, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, China
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Lu W, Xu C, Hu X, Liu J, Zhang Q, Peng L, Li M, Li W. The Relationship Between Resilience and Posttraumatic Growth Among the Primary Caregivers of Children With Developmental Disabilities: The Mediating Role of Positive Coping Style and Self-Efficacy. Front Psychol 2022; 12:765530. [PMID: 35058840 PMCID: PMC8764196 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.765530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between posttraumatic growth (PTG), resilience, positive coping style, and self-efficacy among the primary caregivers of children with developmental disorders in Chongqing, China. A total of 198 primary caregivers (parents and grandparents) aged from 22 to 66 years old (M = 35.55, SD = 9.16), including 155 females (78.3%) and 43 males (21.7%), were enrolled. The Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-10, Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, and General Self-Efficacy Scale were used for data collection. The results found that PTG could be positively predicted by resilience. Positive coping style and self-efficacy mediated the relationship between resilience and PTG. The different levels of PTG were determined by the resident location, monthly income and education of the primary caregivers. The results suggest that it is critical to improve the mental health of the primary caregivers (parents and grandparents) of children with developmental disabilities. Our results also provide a scientific basis for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Lu
- Department of Military Psychology, Faculty of Medical Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Military Psychology, Faculty of Medical Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiankang Hu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ju Liu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qianhui Zhang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Peng
- Department of Military Psychology, Faculty of Medical Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Military Psychology, Faculty of Medical Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenzao Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Gabra RH, Hashem DF, Ahmed GK. The possible relation between stigma, parent psychiatric symptoms, quality of life and the disease burden in families of children with autism spectrum disorder in Egypt: a multicentre study. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-021-00426-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Most autism spectrum disorder (ASD) interventions evaluated child outcomes and ignoring the role of parent and family factors on both the immediate- and long-term effects of therapy. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between stigma, parent mental health problems, and quality of life and burden in families of children with ASD in Egypt and its risk factors. Seventy parents of ASD children were recruited from two child intervention centers. Participants were divided into two groups based on burden scale: caregivers of moderate burden (n = 27) and caregivers of severe burden (n = 43). All parents were evaluated for demographic data, zarit Burden Interview, socioeconomic scale, symptom checklist–90 (SCL90), Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue Community Stigma Scale (EMIC-CSS), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life–BREF (WHOQOL-BREF).
Results
Half of the parents reported significant stigma, particularly caregivers with a severe burden. Caregivers with severe burden had more depression and about twice the frequency of sensitivity and somatization problems, lower QoL (20%) as compared with caregivers with moderate burden. Parents with ASD had many associate factors such as work, male autistic children and their caregiver, age of children and parents, the severity of the condition, and disease duration with burden, stigma, QoL, and mental health problems.
Conclusions
This study linked the interrelationships between increased burden and stigma, impaired quality of life, and parental mental health problems; the presence of one of these variables was found to increase the risk of other variables.
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Musetti A, Manari T, Dioni B, Raffin C, Bravo G, Mariani R, Esposito G, Dimitriou D, Plazzi G, Franceschini C, Corsano P. Parental Quality of Life and Involvement in Intervention for Children or Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review. J Pers Med 2021; 11:894. [PMID: 34575671 PMCID: PMC8469292 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11090894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has examined several parental, child-related, and contextual factors associated with parental quality of life (QoL) among parents with a child or an adolescent with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however, no systematic review has examined the relationship between parental QoL and parental involvement in intervention. To fill this gap, a systematic review was conducted using four electronic databases and checked reference lists of retrieved studies. Records were included in the systematic review if they presented original data, assessed parental QoL, and involvement in intervention for children or adolescents with ASD, were published in peer-reviewed journals between 2000 and 2020, and were written in English. Among the 96 screened full-texts, 17 articles met the eligibility criteria. The selected studies included over 2000 parents of children or adolescents with ASD. Three categories of parental involvement (i.e., none, indirect, direct) were identified, which varied across studies, although most had direct parental involvement. The results from this review show that increased parental involvement in the intervention for children or adolescents with ASD may be one way to promote their QoL. However, further research specifically focused on parental involvement during the intervention for children and adolescents with ASD is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy
| | - Tommaso Manari
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy
| | - Barbara Dioni
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy
- Fondazione Bambini e Autismo Onlus, 33170 Pordenone, Italy
| | - Cinzia Raffin
- Fondazione Bambini e Autismo Onlus, 33170 Pordenone, Italy
| | - Giulia Bravo
- Fondazione Bambini e Autismo Onlus, 33170 Pordenone, Italy
| | - Rachele Mariani
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Esposito
- Social and Affective Neuroscience Lab, Psychology Program-SSS, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639818, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore
- Affiliative Behaviour and Physiology Lab, Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy
| | - Dagmara Dimitriou
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL-Institute of Education, London WC1H 0AA, UK
- The National Institute for Stress, Anxiety, Depression and Behavioural Change (NISAD), 252 21 Helsingborg, Sweden
| | - Giuseppe Plazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna (ISNB), 40139 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Paola Corsano
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy
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Pereira AS, Azhari A, Hong CA, Gaskin GE, Borelli JL, Esposito G. Savouring as an Intervention to Decrease Negative Affect in Anxious Mothers of Children with Autism and Neurotypical Children. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050652. [PMID: 34065747 PMCID: PMC8157107 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Savouring is an emotion regulation strategy and intervention that focuses on the process of attending, intensifying and prolonging positive experiences and positive affect associated with these memories. Personal savouring involves a reflection on positive memories that are specific to the individual and do not involve others. In contrast, relational savouring entails reflecting on instances when people were responsive to the needs of their significant others. Such interventions hold potential benefits in enhancing positive affect (PA) and reducing negative affect (NA) for both parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and parents of neurotypical children. Adults with greater symptoms of generalised anxiety have been found to have less PA and more NA. However, no study has investigated the effects of a mother’s anxiety symptoms on the efficacy of savouring in enhancing PA and reducing NA. Thus, this paper combined personal and relational savouring to investigate whether savouring may enhance PA and reduce NA of a pooled sample of mothers of neurotypical children and mothers of children with ASD. 52 mothers of neurotypical children and 26 mothers of children with ASD aged 3–7 years old were given a series of questionnaires and randomly assigned to either relational savouring or personal savouring conditions. In relational savouring, mothers were asked to reflect upon a shared positive experience with their child while in the personal savouring condition, a personal positive experience was recalled. Across mothers of children with ASD and neurotypical children, findings suggest that savouring leads to a decrease in NA (p < 0.01) but not increases in PA. Similarly, mothers with higher levels of anxiety experience a greater decrease in NA (p < 0.001) compared to mothers with lower levels of anxiety post-savouring. This study proposes that a brief savouring intervention may be effective among mothers of preschoolers. As lower levels of negative affect is linked to healthier psychological well-being, mothers might be able to engage in more effective and warm parenting after savouring exercises, which would cultivate positive mother-child relationships that benefit their children in the long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel S. Pereira
- Psychology Program, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore; (A.S.P.); (A.A.); (C.A.H.)
| | - Atiqah Azhari
- Psychology Program, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore; (A.S.P.); (A.A.); (C.A.H.)
| | - Chloe A. Hong
- Psychology Program, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore; (A.S.P.); (A.A.); (C.A.H.)
| | - Gerin E. Gaskin
- Division of Behavioral and Organizational Sciences, School of Social Science, Policy and Evaluation, Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, CA 91711, USA;
| | - Jessica L. Borelli
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA;
| | - Gianluca Esposito
- Psychology Program, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore; (A.S.P.); (A.A.); (C.A.H.)
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy
- Correspondence: or
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Langley E, Totsika V, Hastings RP, Bailey T. Family Relationships and Their Associations With Perceptions of Family Functioning in Mothers of Children With Intellectual Disability. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 126:187-202. [PMID: 33910238 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-126.3.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We explored whether reports of three dyadic relationships (marital/partner, parent-child, sibling) were related to perceptions of family functioning in 467 mothers of children with intellectual disability aged 4-15 years. Structural equation models were fitted to examine associations between relationship indicators and family functioning. The final structural model showed that partner relationship satisfaction, partner disagreement, child-parent conflict, and sibling relationship warmth accounted for the most variance in family functioning, with partner relationship satisfaction having the strongest positive association. Dimensions of dyadic relationships appear to be associated with broader constructs of family functioning in this sample of mothers, signifying the potential for systemic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Langley
- Emma Langley, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | | | - Tom Bailey
- Richard P. Hastings and Tom Bailey, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Widyawati Y, Scholte RHJ, Kleemans T, Otten R. Positive parenting and its mediating role in the relationship between parental resilience and quality of life in children with developmental disabilities in Java Island, Indonesia. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 112:103911. [PMID: 33631600 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.103911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Developmental disabilities exert severe physical, cognitive and social-emotional consequences, such as low quality of life, not only on children but also on their families. However, the extent of the effect of such consequences on quality of life is partially dependent on how parents address the situation. AIMS The study aimed to examine whether positive parenting mediates the link between parental resilience and quality of life of children with a developmental disability in Indonesia. METHODS AND PROCEDURES Data were derived from a three-wave longitudinal study on 497, 224 and 209 families in waves one, two and three, respectively. The study determined parental resilience by assessing the knowledge of parents about the characteristics of their child, perceived social support and positive perception of parenting. Quality of life consisted of five aspects: material well-being, communication and influence, socio-emotional well-being, development and activity. Positive parenting was assessed through observed levels of support, encouragement and praise. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The results demonstrated that positive parenting mediated the impact of positive perception of parenting on quality of life. This finding implies that positive perception and positive parenting should be encouraged when families with children with developmental disabilities receive care or support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yapina Widyawati
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, P.O. Box 9104, 6500 HE Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - R H J Scholte
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, P.O. Box 9104, 6500 HE Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Tijs Kleemans
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, P.O. Box 9104, 6500 HE Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Roy Otten
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, P.O. Box 9104, 6500 HE Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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12
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McLean S, Halstead EJ. Resilience and stigma in mothers of children with emotional and behavioural difficulties. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 108:103818. [PMID: 33276231 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mothers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience frequent and high levels of stigma from family, friends, and members of the public. This stigma can have a negative impact on mothers' psychological well-being, their social circle, and their relationship with their child. AIMS The present study aimed to establish if there was a relationship between emotional and behavioural difficulties and stigma, and if resilience, social support and parental adjustment acted as a protective factors in this relationship. METHODS 108 mothers of children aged between four and 16 years old with IDD participated in a cross-sectional online survey. Mothers were asked about their child's behavioural difficulties, their experience of stigma, in addition to completing assessments of resilience, social support, and parental adjustment. RESULTS Overall child behavioural and emotional difficulties, and the sub domain emotional problems, hyperactivity, and low prosocial behaviour were found to be a significant independent predictors of stigma. Resilience was associated with stigma and moderated the relationship between low prosocial behaviour and stigma. There was no evidence that social support or parental attachment acted as protective factors in the relationship between child behavioural difficulties and stigma. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study extend the findings of previous research by providing evidence that families of children with a range of developmental disabilities experience stigma, in particular when children show high levels of emotional problems and hyperactivity, and low levels of prosocial behaviour. The present study also provides evidence that resilience is associated with stigma and resilience-building interventions may be beneficial to reduce the negative impact of stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaunna McLean
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, Institute of Education, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth J Halstead
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, Institute of Education, United Kingdom.
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13
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Schiltz HK, Van Hecke AV. Applying the Vulnerability Stress Adaptation Model of Marriage to Couples Raising an Autistic Child: A Call for Research on Adaptive Processes. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2020; 24:120-140. [DOI: 10.1007/s10567-020-00332-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Downes N, Lichtlé J, Lamore K, Orêve MJ, Cappe E. Couples' Experiences of Parenting a Child After an Autism Diagnosis: A Qualitative Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:2697-2710. [PMID: 33067696 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04744-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
After a child is diagnosed with autism, parents' relationships are impacted as they reorganize their daily lives to support their child's specific needs. A better understanding of parenting couples' adaptation is needed to accompany them during this period. This qualitative study explored couples' experiences after their child's autism diagnosis. An inductive thematic analysis among ten couple interviews (N = 20) revealed three key themes: emotional experiences, external support, and adaptation. Overall, the quality of couples' relationships before having a child influenced their relationship after the diagnosis. In general, parents presented complementary coparenting roles, while different opinions about how to raise the child strained their relationship. Helping parents adapt to a diagnosis together could prove to be important for future interventions and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Downes
- Université de Paris, LPPS, F-92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Jérôme Lichtlé
- Université de Paris, LPPS, F-92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | | | - Marie-Joëlle Orêve
- Service de Psychiatrie Infanto-Juvénile, Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, 78150, Le Chesnay, France
| | - Emilie Cappe
- Université de Paris, LPPS, F-92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
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Chan KKS, Leung DCK. The Impact of Child Autistic Symptoms on Parental Marital Relationship: Parenting and Coparenting Processes as Mediating Mechanisms. Autism Res 2020; 13:1516-1526. [PMID: 32314878 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Research shows that parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with increased marital conflicts and reduced marital love. Less is known, however, about the potential mechanism underlying these associations. The present study tested a family process model linking child autism to parental marriage. We hypothesized that child autistic symptoms would be associated with increased marital conflicts and reduced marital love among parents of children with ASD, and that these associations would be mediated by parenting stress and coparenting conflicts. A total of 382 parents of children with ASD from Hong Kong, China completed questionnaire measures of child autistic symptoms, parenting stress, coparenting conflicts, marital conflicts, and marital love. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and Bootstrap analyses were conducted to analyze the relations among the variables. SEM showed that child autistic symptoms were related to higher levels of parenting stress and coparenting conflicts, which were, in turn, related to increased marital conflicts and reduced marital love among parents of children with ASD. Bootstrap analyses further demonstrated that child autistic symptoms had significant indirect effects on marital conflicts and marital love via parenting stress and coparenting conflicts. Theoretically, this study revealed the potential pathways through which child autism symptomatology may adversely impact the family processes and compromise the marital relationships of parents of children with ASD. Practically, this study pointed to the utility of helping parents of children with ASD to manage child autistic symptoms, alleviate parenting stress, and reduce coparenting conflicts in improving their marital qualities. LAY SUMMARY: This study showed that child autistic symptoms were related to higher levels of parenting stress and coparenting conflicts, which were, in turn, related to increased marital conflicts and reduced marital love among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These findings pointed to the importance of helping parents of children with ASD to manage child autistic symptoms, alleviate parenting stress, and reduce coparenting conflicts in improving their marital qualities. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1516-1526. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Ka Shing Chan
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong.,Centre for Psychosocial Health, The Education University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Donald Chi Kin Leung
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong
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16
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Examining the Links Between Received Network Support and Marital Quality Among Mothers of Children with ASD: A Longitudinal Mediation Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 50:960-975. [PMID: 31853756 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04330-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Employing a cohort sequential design and multilevel modeling, the direct and indirect effects (via depressed mood, emotional wellbeing, and perceived support) of received network support on marital quality were assessed over a 7-year period (child age 7-14) on 96 married or cohabiting mothers of children with ASD. Findings indicated several significant direct and indirect effects affecting change within mothers over time, with effects varying by whether the support source was a spouse or partner, family members, or friends. In addition, one moderated mediation effect was noted, with the indirect effect of received spousal support on marital quality via perceived spousal support retaining significance only at low and moderate levels of child problem behavior severity. Study strengths, limitations, and clinical implications are discussed.
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17
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Goetz GL, Rodriguez G, Hartley SL. Actor-partner examination of daily parenting stress and couple interactions in the context of child autism. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY : JFP : JOURNAL OF THE DIVISION OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION (DIVISION 43) 2019; 33:554-564. [PMID: 30973257 PMCID: PMC6897294 DOI: 10.1037/fam0000527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at risk for poor couple relationship quality. The goal of the current study was to understand actor and partner associations between daily level of parenting stress and perceived couple interactions using a 14-day daily diary in 186 families of children with ASD. A comparison group of 182 families of children without a neurodevelopmental disability was included to determine if actor and partner associations differed in a context of child ASD. On each day of the 14-day diary, parents independently rated their daily level of parenting stress (7-point scale) and reported on the perceived presence of different types of positive (e.g., hugged and kissed) and negative (e.g., critical comment) couple interactions. Multilevel models were used to examine actor and partner effects, and their interaction, in mothers and fathers and by group (ASD vs. comparison). Results indicated that actor daily level of parenting stress negatively covaried with perceived positive couple interactions in mothers in both groups. In contrast, actor daily level of parenting stress positively covaried with perceived positive couple interactions in fathers in the ASD group. There was a significant interaction between actor and partner daily level of parenting stress for perceived negative couple interactions in both mothers and fathers. Specifically, one's own daily level of parenting stress was more strongly positively related to her/his perceived negative couple interactions on days when her/his partner also had high parenting stress. This interaction was stronger in mothers in the ASD versus comparison group. Implications for family interventions are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta L Goetz
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies and Waisman Center
| | | | - Sigan L Hartley
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies and Waisman Center
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18
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Al Khateeb JM, Kaczmarek L, Al Hadidi MS. Parents’ perceptions of raising children with autism spectrum disorders in the United States and Arab countries: A comparative review. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 23:1645-1654. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361319833929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Four databases were searched to identify studies published by Arab researchers on parents’ perceptions of autism spectrum disorder and studies conducted by US researchers and published in systematic reviews of this topic. The electronic search resulted in 14 studies published by Arab researchers and 55 studies published by US researchers. The results showed that autism spectrum disorder has many of the same effects on Arab and American families. Six major areas were identified in the results. Financial difficulties associated with raising children with autism spectrum disorder were mentioned more in Arab studies than in US studies. Arab studies had more emphasis on gender than US studies. The results related to quality of life of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder in Arab studies were equivocal. US studies included comparisons with families without a child with autism spectrum disorder, and addressed factors that were associated with quality of life indicators. More health, educational, and social services were available in United States than in Arab countries, but some frustration was reported by US parents in obtaining appropriate services in some studies. A higher percentage of Arab studies mentioned the role of religious faith than US studies. Finally, social stigma was evidenced in both cultures, but not much research was available.
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Daily Couple Experiences and Parent Affect in Families of Children with Versus Without Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:1645-1658. [PMID: 28275928 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3088-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We examined daily couple experiences in 174 couples who had a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) relative to 179 couples who had a child without disabilities and their same-day association with parent affect. Parents completed a 14-day daily diary in which they reported time with partner, partner support, partner closeness, and positive and negative couple interactions and level of positive and negative affect. One-way multivariate analyses of covariance and dyadic multilevel models were conducted. Parents of children with ASD reported less time with partner, lower partner closeness, and fewer positive couple interactions than the comparison group. Daily couple experiences were more strongly associated with parent affect in the ASD than comparison group. Findings have implications for programs and supports.
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20
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Validating the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire as a Measure of Parent Perceptions of Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 48:1761-1779. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3442-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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21
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Tomaz RVV, Santos VDA, Silva de Avó LRD, Germano CMR, Melo DG. [Impact of moderate intellectual disability on the dynamics and quality of family life: a qualitative clinical study]. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2017; 33:e00096016. [PMID: 29166480 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00096016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This qualitative clinical study investigated the impact of moderate intellectual disability on family dynamics and quality of life. The data were collected using individual interviews with 15 mothers of children with intellectual disabilities, as a convenience sample, and examined with categorical thematic content analysis. The results were discussed using a comprehensive and interpretative approach. Analysis of the interviews showed that care for children with intellectual disabilities is centered on the mother, contributing to the change in family relations. Religious coping appeared as a common strategy for adjusting. Children with intellectual disabilities had less access to services and support than they needed in the areas of health, education, and leisure. Financial constraints and difficulties in community living had a negative impact on the quality of family life. Emotional and psychological support for all the family members, and practical and social support, including income distribution and access to adequate services, proved essential for the well-being of children with intellectual disabilities and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Débora Gusmão Melo
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brasil
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22
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Pisula E, Porębowicz-Dörsmann A. Family functioning, parenting stress and quality of life in mothers and fathers of Polish children with high functioning autism or Asperger syndrome. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186536. [PMID: 29036188 PMCID: PMC5643111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the perception of the family functioning in parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) with normal-range intelligence and the relationships between family functioning, parenting stress and quality of life. Dyads of parents of children with ASD without intellectual disability and parents of typically developing children (controls) completed a set of self-report questionnaires. Parents of children with ASD reported lower functioning of the family as a whole and their own functioning as family members; they exhibited higher levels of parenting stress and lower quality of life. Mothers of children with ASD experienced more stress in personal domain than fathers. Relationships between family functioning, parenting stress and quality of life have been established. There were also moderate to strong correlations in mother-father dyads between their assessments of family functioning, parenting stress and QoL in social relationships and environmental domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Pisula
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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23
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Relationship Satisfaction and Dyadic Coping in Couples with a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:3562-3573. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3275-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Halstead EJ, Griffith GM, Hastings RP. Social support, coping, and positive perceptions as potential protective factors for the well-being of mothers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2017; 64:288-296. [PMID: 34141317 PMCID: PMC8115529 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2017.1329192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Behavioral and emotional problems exhibited by children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have been identified as significant stressors for family members in both cross-sectional and longitudinal research. However, there is variability in the extent to which family members are affected by behavioral and emotional problems. In the present study, we explored whether perceived social support, positive perceptions, or coping style explain some of this variability and specifically whether these three variables function as protective factors. Methods: One hundred and thirty-eight mothers of children aged between four and 18 years old with IDD participated in a cross-sectional survey. Results: Using moderated multiple regression models, we found consistent evidence that perceived social support functioned as a protective factor - affecting the relationship between child behavioral and emotional problems and maternal depression, life satisfaction, and positive affect. There was no evidence that coping and positive perceptions acted as a protective factors. Conclusion: Building social support through parental interventions, especially in families of children with behavioral and emotional problems, may result in improved well-being for mothers of children with IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gemma M. Griffith
- Centre for Mindfulness Research and Practice, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Richard P. Hastings
- CEDAR (Centre for Educational Development Appraisal and Research), University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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25
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Parent-Reported Strengths in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders at the Time of an Interdisciplinary Diagnostic Evaluation. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2017; 38:181-186. [PMID: 28368969 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000000423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often focus on concerns in discussions with health care providers. However, studying child strengths and positive parental attributions is an emerging area of focus and not often highlighted in many studies with children with ASD. The objective of this study was to identify parent-reported strengths in a sample of children with ASD. METHODS This was a qualitative study of parent report of strengths in clinical notes with children between the ages 3 and 8 presenting for a team diagnostic evaluation and meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-IV-Text Revision (TR) or DSM-V diagnostic criteria for ASD. The reported child's strengths were qualitatively analyzed, coded, and clustered into themes. RESULTS Ninety-eight charts were reviewed. Five meta-themes of strengths were identified: Personality Characteristics, Social Personality, Cognitive Functioning, Behavioral Characteristics/Coping Mechanisms, and Skills. On average, parents reported more strengths in the Cognitive Functioning and Personality Characteristics meta-themes. CONCLUSION Pediatricians have a unique opportunity to discuss parental positive perceptions of children with ASD and to learn about their strengths.
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26
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Sim A, Cordier R, Vaz S, Netto J, Falkmer T. Factors associated with negative co-parenting experiences in families of a child with autism spectrum disorder. Dev Neurorehabil 2017; 20:83-91. [PMID: 26313272 DOI: 10.3109/17518423.2015.1069414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to identify key factors associated with negative co-parenting experiences in parents raising a child with autism spectrum disorder. METHODS Questionnaires were sent to families with one or more children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Parents of 142 children with autism spectrum disorder indicated that the diagnosis had a very negative impact on their co-parent relationship. A multivariate logistic regression model was run to analyze the association of these experiences with various demographic, family and community factors. RESULTS Three factors were associated with negative co-parenting relationships: (1) family stress due to the child's diagnosis, (2) effects of the diagnosis on parents' relationship with their other children and (3) distance travelled to the nearest medical facility. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the need to further explore family dynamics, particularly the relationships between the co-parenting alliance, other family members and the extra-familial environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Sim
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Reinie Cordier
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Sharmila Vaz
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Julie Netto
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Torbjörn Falkmer
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia.,b School of Occupational Therapy, La Trobe University , Melbourne , Victoria , Australia.,c Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Medicine and Health Sciences (IMH), Faculty of Health Sciences , Linköping University , Linköping , Sweden.,d Pain and Rehabilitation Centre , UHL, County, Council , Linköping , Sweden , and.,e Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Autism CRC) , Long Pocket , Brisbane , Queensland , Australia
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Wong V, Yu Y, Keyes ML, McGrew JH. Pre-diagnostic and Diagnostic Stages of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Parent Perspective. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/13575279.2016.1199537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Venus Wong
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Melissa L. Keyes
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - John H. McGrew
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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28
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Fathers' Experience With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Nursing Implications. J Pediatr Health Care 2016; 30:453-63. [PMID: 26700165 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 10/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition characterized by very mild symptoms to severe impairments in communication skills, social interactions, and unusual behaviors that interfere with independent functioning and interactions with others. ASD may cause financial, social, and emotional difficulties that negatively affect the entire family. The main focus of current research in caregivers of children with ASD focuses on the mothers rather than fathers or both parents, and no studies have used the fathers' words to describe their experience with ASD. Fathers have an important role to improve outcomes for their children receiving therapy. With more fathers taking on the primary caregiver role, it is important to understand their experience with ASD and their needs to help them actively engage in their role as fathers. The purpose of this study was to describe fathers' experience with ASD using their own words and identify any resources needed to help them actively engage in their role as a father of a child with ASD. METHODS A single-case, multiple-participant, phenomenological approach case study was conducted to describe the experience of fathers of children with ASD. The case was defined as White non-Hispanic (the population identified as having the highest incidence of ASD) fathers who are living in the same home with their child(ren) who has/have a formal diagnosis of ASD. Fathers answered open-ended questions about their experience with ASD, including the challenges they face, their advice for other fathers of children with ASD, and what they need to overcome the challenges of ASD. The theoretical model for the study was the Resiliency Model of Family Stress, Adjustment, and Adaptation. The model was designed to help health care professionals identify a family's strengths and weaknesses as they face existing and new stressors related to a long-term medical condition and then provide interventions to help the family become resilient so they can meet the challenges. RESULTS Fathers in this study had experiences similar to those described in previous studies with regard to mothers of children with ASD. The similarity of the findings in the small sample size of fathers and those in studies with larger sample sizes of mothers supports development of clinical interventions that will benefit both mothers and fathers of children with ASD. Fathers described the adjustments made by each member of the family to face the challenges of ASD. Fathers also explained their needs, including money, teamwork, honesty, information, and time. The fathers experienced stages of grief and loss that are similar to those that occur when experiencing a death. DISCUSSION Nurses are the eyes and ears of the health care team and the voice for the parents, thus creating a critical connection between the parents and health care team. Fathers in the current study and mothers in previous studies described their need for someone to listen to them, educate them and others about ASD, acknowledge their experience and emotions, and direct them to appropriate resources. Nursing implications include taking action to lead the parents through the challenges and helping them develop resiliency and facilitating improved outcomes for the children and the entire family. A resource book or computer file including information about available resources and information about ASD and treatment can be a valuable tool to help overcome challenges related to ASD.
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Supportive Dyadic Coping and Psychological Adaptation in Couples Parenting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Role of Relationship Satisfaction. J Autism Dev Disord 2016; 46:3434-3447. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2883-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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30
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Predictors of Daily Relationship Quality in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2016; 46:2573-2586. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2799-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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31
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Pruitt MM, Willis K, Timmons L, Ekas NV. The impact of maternal, child, and family characteristics on the daily well-being and parenting experiences of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 20:973-985. [PMID: 26851229 DOI: 10.1177/1362361315620409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
This study utilized a daily diaries method to explore the global factors that impact daily general affect and daily parenting interactions of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. Eighty-three mothers of a child with autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 3 and 13 years completed global assessments of maternal depressive symptoms, child autism spectrum disorder symptom severity, and family functioning. Mothers then reported on their daily negative and positive affect as well as their daily positive and frustrating parenting interactions for 14 consecutive days. The results indicated that higher levels of maternal depressive symptoms were related to decreased daily positive affect, whereas greater child social motivation impairments were related to increased daily positive affect. Only maternal depressive symptoms were associated with increased daily negative affect. Furthermore, higher levels of family cohesion were related to increased daily positive parenting interactions. Finally, higher maternal depressive symptoms as well as family rigidity were related to increased daily frustrating parenting interactions. Implications for interventions focused on the family system are discussed.
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Tint A, Weiss JA. Family wellbeing of individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A scoping review. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2015; 20:262-75. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361315580442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Families play an important role in supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan. Indicators of family wellbeing can help to establish benchmarks for service provision and evaluation; however, a critical first step is a clear understanding of the construct in question. The purpose of the current scoping review was to (a) summarize current conceptualizations and measurements of family wellbeing, (b) synthesize key findings, and (c) highlight gaps and limitations in the extant literature. A final review of 86 articles highlighted the difficulty of synthesizing findings of family wellbeing in the autism spectrum disorder literature due to varied measurement techniques and the limited use of a common theoretical direction. Considerations for future research are presented with an eye toward policy relevance.
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Harper A, Taylor Dyches T, Harper J, Olsen Roper S, South M. Respite care, marital quality, and stress in parents of children with autism spectrum disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 2014; 43:2604-16. [PMID: 23529841 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-013-1812-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are at risk for having higher stress and lower marital quality than other parents. Survey data regarding respite care, marital quality, and daily hassles and uplifts were obtained from 101 mother-father dyads who were together raising at least one child with ASD (total # of children = 118). Number of hours of respite care was positively related to improved marital quality for both husbands and wives, such that a 1-h increase in weekly respite care was associated with a one-half standard deviation increase in marital quality. This relationship was significantly mediated by perceived daily stresses and uplifts in both husbands and wives. More respite care was associated with increased uplifts and reduced stress; increased uplifts were associated with improved marital quality; and more stress was associated with reduced marital quality. The number of children in the family was associated with greater stress, and reduced relational quality and daily uplifts. Results suggest policymakers and practitioners should develop supports for providing respite for families raising children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Harper
- Giant Steps, Wasatch Mental Health, 921 North 1240 East, Orem, UT, 84097, USA,
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Zhang W, Yan TT, Barriball KL, While AE, Liu XH. Post-traumatic growth in mothers of children with autism: A phenomenological study. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2013; 19:29-37. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361313509732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
While the adverse effects of raising a child with autism are well demonstrated, there have been few reports of the post-traumatic growth of mothers of children with autism. The purpose of this research was to explore dimensions of post-traumatic growth in this population in Mainland China and identify the factors facilitating post-traumatic growth. A total of 11 mothers of pre-school children were recruited from five rehabilitation centres of children with disabilities in Shanghai. The semi-structured interviews were conducted between August 2012 and October 2012 and analysed using thematic analysis. The data partially confirmed Tedeschi and Calhoun’s model of post-traumatic growth. A new philosophy of life, appreciation of life, relating to others, personal strength and spiritual change were five domains of post-traumatic growth in mothers of children with autism. Perceived social support, peer example, effective coping style and self-efficacy enhancement were facilitating factors of post-traumatic growth. Further studies are needed to understand how to promote the post-traumatic growth of mothers of children with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Second Military Medical University, China
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Bluth K, Roberson PNE, Billen RM, Sams JM. A Stress Model for Couples Parenting Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders and the Introduction of a Mindfulness Intervention. JOURNAL OF FAMILY THEORY & REVIEW 2013; 5:194-213. [PMID: 24795780 PMCID: PMC4006932 DOI: 10.1111/jftr.12015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are at an increased risk for acute and chronic stress compared to parents of children with other developmental disabilities and parents of children without disabilities. It is plausible that the stressors of having a child with ASD affect the couple relationship; however, few researchers have focused on this dynamic within these families. In this article, we seek to develop a model for how stress operates in families with children with ASD. In developing this new stress model, we describe the characteristics of ASD, discuss stressors that are pronounced in families of children with ASD as supported by the literature, and highlight the limitations of Perry's (2004) model in application to this population. Our expanded stress model includes the addition of parenting couple resources and parenting couple outcomes. Finally, we demonstrate how to apply the model using a mindfulness intervention to promote positive outcomes and strengthen the couple relationship.
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Blacher J, Begum GF, Marcoulides GA, Baker BL. Longitudinal perspectives of child positive impact on families: relationship to disability and culture. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2013; 118:141-55. [PMID: 23464611 PMCID: PMC7971190 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-118.2.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This study examined mothers' perceptions of the positive impact of having a child with an intellectual disability. Trajectories of positive impact from 7 time points were developed using latent growth modeling and 2 predictors: culture (Anglo, Latino) and child disability status (intellectual disability, typical development). Data were from 219 mothers of children from age 3 to 9 years. Growth trajectories reflected a general decline in positive impact on Anglo mothers. On average, at age 3, Anglo mothers reported significantly lower initial values on positive impact when their children had an intellectual disability, but Latino mothers did not. Across all time points, Latino mothers had higher scores on the positive impact, regardless of whether they had a child with an intellectual disability or a typically developing child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Blacher
- University of California-Riverside, CA, USA.
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Grzadzinski RL, Luyster R, Spencer AG, Lord C. Attachment in young children with autism spectrum disorders: an examination of separation and reunion behaviors with both mothers and fathers. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2012; 18:85-96. [PMID: 23223363 DOI: 10.1177/1362361312467235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Most studies examining attachment in children with autism spectrum disorder used a strange situation paradigm and have found few significant group differences between children with autism spectrum disorder and comparisons. However, these studies predominantly used formal attachment categorizations (e.g. secure vs insecure), a method that may obscure more nuanced differences between groups. In this study, we utilized a qualitative approach to examine attachment behaviors in young children with autism spectrum disorder. Based on the results of previous studies, we looked at (a) parental gender, (b) child diagnosis, and (c) child cognitive skills to examine the role of these three factors on attachment behaviors elicited during a modified strange situation paradigm. Participants were 2- to 3-year-old children with autism spectrum disorder (n = 166) or nonspectrum disorders (n = 45), as well as a sample of 56 children with typical development. Over the three groups, 393 observations of a modified strange situation paradigm with mothers and 127 observations with fathers were collected. Parental gender, child diagnosis, and child cognitive skills each had significant main effects on attachment behaviors elicited during reunion. These results underscore the importance of the father's role in parent-child interactions, with implications for both clinical and research efforts. In addition, the results emphasize the importance of considering a child's diagnosis and cognitive skills when examining attachment behaviors.
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Marital quality and psychological adjustment among mothers of children with ASD: cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 41:1675-85. [PMID: 21347614 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1198-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Using data drawn from a longitudinal study of families of children with ASD, the current study examined the impact of marital quality on three indicators of maternal psychological adjustment: depressed mood, parenting efficacy, and subjective well-being. Multiple regression analyses indicated marital quality to be a significant cross-sectional and longitudinal predictor of maternal adjustment. In the cross-sectional regressions, marital quality negatively predicted maternal depression and positively predicted parenting efficacy, and well-being, while in the longitudinal regressions, initial levels of marital quality negatively predicted maternal depressed mood and positively predicted well-being at follow-up. Longitudinal regression results also revealed that marital quality mediated the relationship between family SES and maternal well-being. Study limitations and implications are discussed.
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Cappe E, Wolff M, Bobet R, Adrien JL. Quality of life: a key variable to consider in the evaluation of adjustment in parents of children with autism spectrum disorders and in the development of relevant support and assistance programmes. Qual Life Res 2011. [PMID: 21312064 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-011-9861-3.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our primary objective was to identify cognitive and behavioural profiles that affect adjustment, in order to make relevant recommendations about support and assistance for parents of autistic children. METHOD One hundred and sixty French parents completed a battery of questionnaires and self-report measures developed or adapted to assess (1) the child and family situations; (2) perceived stress; (3) perceived social support; (4) perceived control; (5) coping strategies; and (6) quality of life. RESULTS The psychometric properties of the instruments we used proved to be adequate. Our results support the pre-existing data and our findings may prove to be of interest to clinicians. Our primary finding was that emotion-focused coping strategies seem to be less effective. Parents who employed emotion-focused strategies were more stressed and more disturbed in most parts of their life. They also experienced more guilt and reported more false beliefs about PDD. CONCLUSIONS Our data underscore the need for psychoeducation programmes for parents, focused on handling stress and emotions, modifying false beliefs and solving the daily problems that arise from PDD. We propose a 5-axis intervention model for parents of children with PDD, based on cognitive-behavioural therapies and on a stress management programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Cappe
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Institut de Psychologie, Université Paris Descartes, 71, avenue Édouard Vaillant, 92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
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Cappe E, Wolff M, Bobet R, Adrien JL. Quality of life: a key variable to consider in the evaluation of adjustment in parents of children with autism spectrum disorders and in the development of relevant support and assistance programmes. Qual Life Res 2011; 20:1279-94. [PMID: 21312064 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-011-9861-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our primary objective was to identify cognitive and behavioural profiles that affect adjustment, in order to make relevant recommendations about support and assistance for parents of autistic children. METHOD One hundred and sixty French parents completed a battery of questionnaires and self-report measures developed or adapted to assess (1) the child and family situations; (2) perceived stress; (3) perceived social support; (4) perceived control; (5) coping strategies; and (6) quality of life. RESULTS The psychometric properties of the instruments we used proved to be adequate. Our results support the pre-existing data and our findings may prove to be of interest to clinicians. Our primary finding was that emotion-focused coping strategies seem to be less effective. Parents who employed emotion-focused strategies were more stressed and more disturbed in most parts of their life. They also experienced more guilt and reported more false beliefs about PDD. CONCLUSIONS Our data underscore the need for psychoeducation programmes for parents, focused on handling stress and emotions, modifying false beliefs and solving the daily problems that arise from PDD. We propose a 5-axis intervention model for parents of children with PDD, based on cognitive-behavioural therapies and on a stress management programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Cappe
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Institut de Psychologie, Université Paris Descartes, 71, avenue Édouard Vaillant, 92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
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