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Rattaz C, Loubersac J, Michelon C, Picot MC, Baghdadli A. Changes in mothers' and fathers' stress level, mental health and coping strategies during the 3 years following ASD diagnosis. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 137:104497. [PMID: 37004353 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ASD in a child affects parental mental health, with elevated levels of stress, anxiety and depression reported in parents. METHOD In this study, we examined mothers' and fathers' stress, anxiety and depression, as well as their coping strategies in a sample of 103 children and adolescents enrolled in the ELENA cohort study in France at diagnosis and three years after diagnosis. RESULTS Results showed that mothers had higher levels of stress and anxiety / depression than fathers and used more social support coping strategies at diagnosis, which might be explained by increased levels of parental involvement. Mothers' stress level significantly decreased during the three years following ASD diagnosis but no such decrease was observed in fathers' stress level. A significant decrease in anxiety and depression was observed for both parents, suggesting that parental distress is particularly elevated during the critical diagnosis period. Results finally yielded a significant decrease in emotion-focused coping strategy in mothers over the three-year period, an ineffective strategy that takes places at the time of diagnosis but then decreases during the period following ASD diagnosis, in relation to the acceptance process. CONCLUSIONS Implications in terms of addressing the unmet mental health needs of parents and their coping strategies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Rattaz
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon et Centre d'excellence sur l'autisme et les troubles neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Julie Loubersac
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon et Centre d'excellence sur l'autisme et les troubles neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France; Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, 94807 Villejuif, France
| | - Cécile Michelon
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon et Centre d'excellence sur l'autisme et les troubles neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie-Christine Picot
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon et Centre d'excellence sur l'autisme et les troubles neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France; Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, 94807 Villejuif, France; Clinical Research Unit, Department of Medical Information, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Amaria Baghdadli
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon et Centre d'excellence sur l'autisme et les troubles neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France; Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, 94807 Villejuif, France; Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montpellier, France.
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Wang H, Liu S, Xu J, Hu X, Han ZR. Daily experiences and well-being of Chinese parents of children with autism. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023:13623613221144191. [PMID: 36594108 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221144191] [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: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT The present study examined the influences of child-related stress, parental coping and social support on parental daily subjective well-being (i.e. positive and negative affect, life satisfactory) in Chinese families of children with autism spectrum disorder. For 14 days, a total of 76 parents (58 mothers) participated in the study and completed daily diaries. For mothers, child-related stress was related to lower life satisfaction; social support was related to higher life satisfaction that day. These daily relations were not found for fathers. Across all parents, avoidant coping was associated with higher negative affect and lower positive affect on the same day. Notably, daily positive coping was related to greater same-day positive affect as well as greater same-day and next-day life satisfaction. Interventions aimed at increasing positive coping and social support, and reducing child-related stress and avoidant coping are important to help parents maintain well-being, particularly for mothers of children with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, China
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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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Larkin F, Hayiou-Thomas ME, Arshad Z, Leonard M, Williams FJ, Katseniou N, Malouta RN, Marshall CRP, Diamantopoulou M, Tang E, Mani S, Meins E. Mind-Mindedness and Stress in Parents of Children with Developmental Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:600-612. [PMID: 32562123 PMCID: PMC7835290 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04570-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Relations between mind-mindedness (assessed using the describe-your-child interview) and stress were investigated in parents of children with developmental disorders (ADHD, n = 51, ASD, n = 23, Down's Syndrome, n = 38, and 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome, 22q11.2DS, n = 32) and typically-developing children (n = 89). Mind-mindedness did not differ across diagnostic groups, and mind-mindedness predicted parenting stress across groups. Parenting stress was lowest in the typically-developing and Down's Syndrome groups. Across all groups, mind-minded and positive descriptions predicted lower parenting stress, and negative descriptions predicted higher stress. In the developmental disorder groups, describing the children with reference to their disorder was negatively correlated with mind-mindedness. Results are discussed with regard to interventions for families where children have developmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fionnuala Larkin
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England. .,York St John University, Lord Mayor's Walk, York, YO31 7EX, England. .,The Retreat York, York, England.
| | | | - Zaynah Arshad
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England.,The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England
| | - Matthew Leonard
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Frances J Williams
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Nicoletta Katseniou
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Rania N Malouta
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | | | - Maria Diamantopoulou
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Etonia Tang
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Sneha Mani
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Elizabeth Meins
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
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Zeligman M, Ataga J, Shaw Z. Posttraumatic Growth in Trauma Survivors: Associations With Attachment to God and God Representation. COUNSELING AND VALUES 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/cvj.12135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Zeligman
- Department of Counselor Education and School Psychology University of Central Florida
| | - Jasmaine Ataga
- Department of Counseling and Psychological Services Georgia State University
- Now at College of Education University of Florida at Gainesville
| | - Zoe Shaw
- Department of Counseling and Psychological Services Georgia State University
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Alon R. Social support and post-crisis growth among mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder and mothers of children with down syndrome. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2019; 90:22-30. [PMID: 31030056 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Raising a child with special needs challenges mothers in complicated ways, yet, alongside these difficulties, there is evidence for maternal post-crisis growth. Social support is one element that may contribute to growth. AIMS This study explores the relationship between social support and post-crisis growth, examines type of disability as a mediating variable between support and growth, and, looks at the relations between subtypes of support and growth. METHODS & PROCEDURES Participants included 99 mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and 119 mothers of children with Down Syndrome (DS). Mothers completed three self-report questionnaires: demographic, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Stress-Related Growth Scale. RESULTS Social support was found to predict maternal post-crisis growth with type of disability serving as a mediating variable between them, such that social support contributes to post-crisis growth only among mothers of children with ASD. In addition, results revealed various correlations between types of support and types of growth. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS The findings indicate that compared to DS, characteristics of ASD may contribute to less maternal post-crisis growth, and that social support serves as an important predictor for growth in this group. Finding ways to increase social support for mothers of children with ASD thus gains additional importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raaya Alon
- Michalal Jersualem College, Baruch Duvdevani 36, Jerusalem, 9116002, Israel.
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Coping strategies of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2019; 28:747-758. [PMID: 29915911 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-018-1183-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
To deal with stress, parents of children with ASD use coping strategies that help to tackle the challenging situations of raising their child. This systematic review examines parental coping strategy's questionnaires, factors which influence these coping strategies, interactions between these strategies and perceived stress and their impact on parental quality of life. According to PRISMA guidelines, an electronic search was conducted on Medline, PsycInfo and Eric: 156 articles were identified and 11 studies were selected. Many types of self-reported questionnaires were used to assess parental coping strategies. Studies highlighted that parents of a child with ASD used more avoidance strategies and less social support-seeking strategies than those of typical children. Furthermore, problem-focused coping protects parental stress and quality of life, that on the contrary, emotion-focused coping is a risk factor for alteration. Our systematic review illustrates the need to adapt psychoeducational interventions for parents of children with ASD.
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8
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Cohen SR, Miguel J, Wishard Guerra A. Child-rearing routines among Mexican-heritage children with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 24:80-94. [PMID: 31096778 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319849244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the daily routines and activities of Mexican-heritage mothers and their children with autism spectrum disorder. Experienced sampling methods were used to capture families' current daily routines and activities, how parents valued those activities, and whether the activity was part of the child's autism spectrum disorder intervention. A total of 32 mothers were texted five times per day over five consecutive days for a total of 721 observations. Mothers frequently engaged in Self-Care (e.g. showering), General Caregiving (e.g. cooking), and House Chores (e.g. laundry). Children engaged in activities in which interventions could easily be integrated (e.g. Academics, Self-Care, and Playing with Others). Families spent less than one-third (26.1%) of their activities participating in interventions. Mothers and children jointly spent time in General Caregiving, Playing with Others, and Using Electronics. Practitioners should focus on integrating evidence-based interventions into daily joint routine activities.
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9
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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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10
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Ilias K, Cornish K, Park MSA, Toran H, Golden KJ. Risk and Resilience Among Mothers and Fathers of Primary School Age Children With ASD in Malaysia: A Qualitative Constructive Grounded Theory Approach. Front Psychol 2019; 9:2275. [PMID: 30670992 PMCID: PMC6331527 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the coping and resilience experiences of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Malaysian cultural context. This study utilized a qualitative methodological approach adopting constructive grounded theory. The study sought to address the lack of research to date exploring the risk and protective experiences that contribute to parental stress and resilience for parents of primary school age children with ASD in the Malaysian setting. Twenty-two parents of children with ASD (13 mothers and 9 fathers) participated in semi-structured interviews. A strength of the study was the inclusion of both mother and father participant perspectives. The interviews lasted 50-80 min (mean: 67.5 min). The 22 parents had a total of 16 children (12 males; 4 females) formally diagnosed with ASD. Child age ranged between 5 and 12 years (mean age: 8.44). Overall, analysis of the 22 interviews revealed four prominent themes - "initial reaction to child's ASD symptoms and diagnosis," "family life affected by a child with ASD," "awareness about ASD in Malaysia," and "coping strategies, wellbeing, and becoming resilient." The first three themes revolved around stress and adversity, and, the adaptability and acceptance of the parents. These processes illustrated the risks experienced by the parents of children with ASD in Malaysia. The last theme especially highlighted the strengths and determination of the parents and illustrated the protective experiences and processes that helped parents to develop and enhance resilience. Overall, the findings revealed that resilience develops synergistically and dynamically from both risk and protective experiences across different levels - individual, family, community, society and government. The findings motivated the development of our theoretical model of resilience that can help health and education professionals tailor assessment and interventions for parents of children with ASD in the Malaysian context. Clinical, policy, and research suggestions were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartini Ilias
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Global Asia in the 21st Century Research Platform (GA21), Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam, Malaysia
| | - Kim Cornish
- School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Miriam Sang-Ah Park
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Global Asia in the 21st Century Research Platform (GA21), Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Hasnah Toran
- Faculty of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Karen Jennifer Golden
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Global Asia in the 21st Century Research Platform (GA21), Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
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11
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Zou G, Li Y, Xu R, Li P. Resilience and positive affect contribute to lower cancer-related fatigue among Chinese patients with gastric cancer. J Clin Nurs 2018; 27:e1412-e1418. [PMID: 29266530 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.14245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To investigate the prevalence of cancer-related fatigue and explore the relationship between resilience, positive affect, and fatigue among Chinese patients with gastric cancer. BACKGROUND Cancer-related fatigue is the most distressing symptom reported frequently by cancer patients during both treatment and survival phases. Resilience and positive affect as vital protective factors against cancer-related fatigue have been examined, but the underlying psychological mechanisms are not well understood. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. METHODS Two hundred and three gastric cancer patients were enrolled from three hospitals in China. The Cancer Fatigue Scale, the positive affect subscale of the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC10) were administered. Hierarchical linear regression modelling was conducted to examine the association between resilience and cancer-related fatigue, and the mediating effect of positive affect. RESULTS The incidence of clinically relevant fatigue among patients with gastric cancer was 91.6%. Regression analysis showed that resilience was negatively associated with cancer-related fatigue, explaining 15.4% of variance in cancer-related fatigue. Mediation analysis showed that high resilience was associated with increased positive affect, which was associated with decreased cancer-related fatigue. CONCLUSIONS Cancer-related fatigue is prevalent among patients with gastric cancer. Positive affect may mediate the relationship between resilience and cancer-related fatigue. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Interventions that attend to resilience training and promotion of positive affect may be the focus for future clinical and research endeavours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiyuan Zou
- School of Nursing, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Shandong Mental Health Center, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ye Li
- Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ruicai Xu
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ping Li
- School of Nursing, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
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12
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Li XS, Pinto-Martin JA, Thompson A, Chittams J, Kral TVE. Weight status, diet quality, perceived stress, and functional health of caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder. J SPEC PEDIATR NURS 2018; 23. [PMID: 29240304 DOI: 10.1111/jspn.12205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be highly demanding and can put significant strain on caregivers. To date, little is known about the extent to which caregivers of children with ASD experience increased levels of stress which may adversely affect health outcomes. The purpose of this secondary analysis was to compare caregivers of children with ASD and caregivers of typically developing children (TDC) in weight status, diet quality, perceived stress related to the parenting role, and functional health and well-being. DESIGN AND METHODS Caregivers of 25 children with ASD and 30 TDC completed the 2005 Block Food Frequency Questionnaire, the 36-item Short Form of the Parenting Stress Index (PSI/SF), and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and had their heights and weights measured during an onsite visit. Diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2010 and its dietary components and conformance to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. RESULTS ASD caregivers did not differ significantly from TDC caregivers in body mass index or overweight/obesity prevalence (p ≥ .28), even when controlling for covariates. In univariate analyses, ASD caregivers consumed significantly fewer empty calories from solid fats, alcohol, and added sugars than TDC caregivers (p = .03), but they did not differ significantly in any other dietary outcomes including nutrient adequacy (p ≥ .10) and mean total HEI scores (p = .20). ASD caregivers, when compared to TDC caregivers, reported significantly greater parenting stress for the subscales difficult child and parent-child dysfunctional interaction as well as total stress (p < .001). In addition, 56% of ASD caregivers compared with 6.7% of TDC caregivers showed clinically significant levels of stress (p < .0001); a finding which remained statistically significant when controlling for covariates. ASD and TDC caregivers did not differ significantly in any SF-36 health domains related to functional health and well-being (p ≥ .10). PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Despite higher reported levels of stress, ASD caregivers did not differ significantly from TDC caregivers in diet- and health-related outcomes. Nurses and other health professionals should use comprehensive screening tools to assess overall caregiver stress and levels of resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyin Sara Li
- Master of Public Health Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennyslvania, USA
| | - Jennifer A Pinto-Martin
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennyslvania, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Aleda Thompson
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennyslvania, USA
| | - Jesse Chittams
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennyslvania, USA
| | - Tanja V E Kral
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennyslvania, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
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McAuliffe T, Vaz S, Falkmer T, Cordier R. A comparison of families of children with autism spectrum disorders in family daily routines, service usage, and stress levels by regionality. Dev Neurorehabil 2017; 20:483-490. [PMID: 27739909 DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2016.1236844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore whether family routines, service usage, and stress levels in families of children with autism spectrum disorder differ as a function of regionality. METHODS Secondary analysis of data was undertaken from 535 surveys. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate differences between families living in densely populated (DP) areas and less densely populated (LDP) areas. RESULTS Families living in LDP areas were found to: (1) have reduced employment hours (a two-parent household: Exp (B) = 3.48, p < .001, a single-parent household: Exp (B) = 3.32, p = .011); (2) travel greater distance to access medical facilities (Exp (B) = 1.27, p = .006); and (3) report less severe stress levels (Exp (B) = 0.22, p = .014). CONCLUSIONS There were no differences in family routines; however, flexible employment opportunities and travel distance to medical services need to be considered in families living in LDP areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi McAuliffe
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
| | - Sharmila Vaz
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
| | - Torbjörn Falkmer
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences , Curtin University , Perth , Australia.,b School of Occupational Therapy , La Trobe University , Melbourne , VIC , Australia.,c Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Medicine and Health Sciences (IMH), Faculty of Health Sciences , Linköping University & Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, UHL, County Council , Linköping , Sweden.,d Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Autism CRC) , Long Pocket, Brisbane , Australia
| | - Reinie Cordier
- a School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
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McAuliffe T, Cordier R, Vaz S, Thomas Y, Falkmer T. Quality of Life, Coping Styles, Stress Levels, and Time Use in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Comparing Single Versus Coupled Households. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:3189-3203. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3240-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Bonis SA, Sawin KJ. Risks and Protective Factors for Stress Self-Management in Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Integrated Review of the Literature. J Pediatr Nurs 2016; 31:567-579. [PMID: 27637421 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2016.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM Stress in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been reported to be very high. However, little is known about what risk and protective factors influence parental stress self-management in this population. Accordingly, this manuscript is a synthesis of the risk and protective factors that impact self-management of stress in these parents. The concepts in the individual and family self-management theory context domain were used as a framework to guide data collection and analysis. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Searches were conducted using CINAHL, MedLine and PsychInfo. Studies were included if they addressed context factors in parents of children with ASD and were written in English. SAMPLE Ninety-eight studies met review criteria. RESULTS This review highlighted risk factors to parental stress self-management within the context of condition-specific factors, physical and social environment, and individual and family. The most concerning of these findings is that parents struggle accessing a diagnosis and services for their child and are frustrated with health care providers' knowledge of ASD and lack of communication. CONCLUSIONS The risks parents experience as they care for their child with ASD far outweigh the protective factors for self-management of parental stress. IMPLICATIONS Nurses who are aware of these issues can make important changes to their practice and have a significant impact on parental stress self-management and the care of children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Bonis
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI.
| | - Kathleen J Sawin
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI; Department of Nursing Research, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Box 1997, Milwaukee, WI
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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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Abstract
The purpose of this review is twofold. The first is to synthesize factors that impact parents' experiences of caring for a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); the second is to identify factors that impact parental stress and parental decision-making to use autism services or not. Parents of children with ASD score higher on levels of stress than other groups of parents. The daily challenges of caring for the child are endless and effect all aspects of the child's care as well as the parent's mental health and ability to manage the needs of the child and family. Understanding more about the challenges parents face will provide direction for research, intervention development, and practice. Accordingly, a search was conducted using CINAHL and Medline. Inclusion criteria included articles available in full text, published in English, and focused on children with ASD distinct from other diagnoses, as well as parental experiences of caring for a child with ASD. Articles (N = 132) that met the inclusion criteria were summarized. Challenging aspects of the child's diagnosis and care are discussed, as well as the factors that impact parental stress and decision-making to use autism services. Recommendations for research and practice include interventional development related to early diagnosis, disparity, access to care, parental decision-making to use autism services, and parental stress management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Bonis
- a University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, College of Nursing , Milwaukee , Wisconsin , USA
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Cox CR, Eaton S, Ekas NV, Van Enkevort EA. Death concerns and psychological well-being in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2015; 45-46:229-238. [PMID: 26256841 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2015.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Utilizing a terror management theory perspective, the present research examined whether having a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with underlying cognitions and explicit worries about death, and their roles in psychological well-being. METHOD 147 mothers of children with ASD (n=74) and typically developing children (n=73) completed a fear of death scale, as well as measures of death-thought accessibility, positive and negative affect, depression, and anxiety. RESULTS Following previous research, mothers of children with ASD reported worse psychological health. Additionally, they evidenced greater death-thought accessibility compared to mothers of typically developing children, but did not differ in explicit worries about mortality. Greater death-thought accessibility, in turn, mediated the influence of ASD diagnosis on negative affect, depression, and anxiety. CONCLUSION The current study offers an initial understanding of the association between mortality concerns and psychological health for mothers of children with ASD. Further, it underscores the importance of health care providers' efforts to attend to, and educate parents about, their thoughts of mortality, even if the parent does not acknowledge such concerns. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS The present study examined the impact of both implicit and explicit worries about death in parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Specifically, we were able to demonstrate that increased death-thought accessibility among mothers of children with ASD was associated with worse psychological health. While it is possible for parents of children with ASD to report conscious worries about death, there were no observed differences on this measure. As far as we know, this work is the first to empirically examine the prevalence of mortality-related concerns in this population and the subsequent effects of death-thought accessibility on psychological health. This is an important avenue of research as parents of children with ASD may experience greater worries about leaving their children upon death with no one to care for them, or to leave their children in the care of individuals who may not understand their son or daughter's unique needs. Additionally, the current findings highlight the importance of addressing mortality-related concerns, even when they may not be explicitly recognized, among parents of children with ASD. Given the effectiveness of parent education programs for children with ASD, a primary avenue for intervention may be education. Training care providers in ways to better discuss thoughts of death may help to alleviate stress and foster greater psychological well-being.
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Londono Y, McMillan DE. Psychosocial adaptation: an evolutionary concept analysis exploring a common multidisciplinary language. J Adv Nurs 2015; 71:2504-19. [PMID: 26148125 DOI: 10.1111/jan.12723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To provide the first known concept analysis of psychosocial adaptation, exploring its evolution from the concept adaptation. We also determine how psychosocial adaptation is conceptualized across nursing, health, sociobehavioural and education disciplines. BACKGROUND Psychosocial adaptation is an important conceptual term that is poorly defined in nursing and other health, sociobehavioural and education disciplines. A thorough understanding of the concept's application in nursing and across disciplines can help to clarify its meaning, facilitate a more effective common language between disciplines and inform future psychosocial adaptation research. DESIGN Rodger's evolutionary view guided this concept analysis. DATA SOURCES Peer-reviewed English and Spanish manuscripts published between 2011-2013 were retrieved from the following databases: CINAHL, Psych INFO, PubMed, Scopus and LILACS. REVIEW METHODS Eighty-nine articles related to psychosocial adaptation were included in the analysis. Findings identify key attributes, antecedents and consequences associated with the use of the concept. Findings were compared vis-a-vis reported characteristics of adaptation. RESULTS The attributes characterizing psychosocial adaptation are: change, process, continuity, interaction and influence. In psychosocial adaptation, new life conditions serve as antecedents, while consequences are good or bad outcomes. Important features of the evolution of this concept include its broad appropriation across the reviewed disciplines. The attributes of psychosocial adaptation, have some similarities to those of general adaptation. Both concepts include an aspect of change, but unlike adaptation, psychosocial adaptation has branched away from biological descriptors, such as homeostasis and tends to focus on relational characteristics, such as interaction and influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yenly Londono
- Department of Applied Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Diana E McMillan
- College of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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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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Abstract
The purpose of this interpretive phenomenological study was to gain a better understanding of the experiences of 11 mothers of preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Mothers were interviewed three times over a 6 week period. Interviews were analyzed using interpretive methods. This manuscript highlights one particular theme-a positive perspective mothers described as the "silver lining." This "silver lining" represents optimism despite the adversities associated with parenting a child with ASD. A deeper understanding of this side of mothering children with ASD may help health care providers improve rapport, communication, and result in more authentic family centered care.
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Lai WW, Oei TPS. Coping in Parents and Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): a Review. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-014-0021-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Zhang W, Yan TT, Du YS, Liu XH. Brief Report: Effects of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Group-Work on Promoting Post-traumatic Growth of Mothers Who Have a Child with ASD. J Autism Dev Disord 2014; 44:2052-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-014-2051-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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