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Spinazzi NA, Velasco AB, Wodecki DJ, Patel L. Autism Spectrum Disorder in Down Syndrome: Experiences from Caregivers. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:1171-1180. [PMID: 36624226 PMCID: PMC10907487 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05758-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to learn about the experiences of families of individuals with a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome (DS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (DS-ASD), and to document the journey from early concerns to diagnosis and intervention. Caregivers completed an online survey describing their journey raising a child with DS-ASD. Survey responses were analyzed qualitatively and coded into categories to highlight common themes. Stereotypy, severe communication impairments, and behavioral difficulties prompted caregivers to pursue further evaluation. There was a mean 4.65-year gap between first noticing symptoms and receiving an ASD diagnosis. Several therapeutic interventions were identified as beneficial, including behavioral and communication support. Caregivers expressed frustration and described high levels of stress and social isolation. The diagnosis of ASD in children with DS is often delayed, and caregivers' initial concerns are frequently dismissed. Raising a child with DS-ASD can lead to social isolation and elevated caregiver stress. More research is needed to tailor diagnostic algorithms and therapeutic interventions to the unique needs of this patient population. Caregivers yearn for improved understanding of DS-ASD, more targeted therapies and educational programs, and more overall support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Alice Spinazzi
- Division of Primary Care, Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, 5220 Claremont Ave, Oakland, CA, USA.
| | - Alyssa Bianca Velasco
- Graduate Medical Education, Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA
- Lucille Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, USA
| | | | - Lina Patel
- Division of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Children's Hospital Colorado and University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
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Zeng S, Sardar A, Beckstein A, Mohamed NH, Shen R, Xiu Y. Developing a new questionnaire of positive contributions to Chinese families by children with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM & DEVELOPMENTAL LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENTS 2024; 9:23969415231221520. [PMID: 38187822 PMCID: PMC10768583 DOI: 10.1177/23969415231221520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Background and Aims A literature review of both Eastern and Western literature regarding families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) revealed limited empirical research that examines ASD in China. Furthermore, most research in this area comes from a deficit model and there is a lack of research that comes from a strengths background. No previous study in China has looked at the positive contributions of children with ASD to their families. The present study came from a strengths-based perspective and aimed to develop a new questionnaire to evaluate the positive contributions made to families by children who have ASD in China and are raised by their respective families. It considered the severity level of the children's disorder and the impact this had on the parents. Besides examining the children's impairment levels, the study also examined positive contributions and their relationship with socio-demographic elements such as family income and employment status of the parents, which also seem to be related to the positive contributions experienced by the parents. Methods First, based on the literature review, an initial qualitative interview protocol was developed and administered to 10 parents of children with ASD. Then, based on the analyses of the interviews, a quantitative questionnaire was developed to assess the positive contributions of children with ASD to their families. The questionnaire was then administered to 156 parents of children with ASD. The internal structure of the questionnaire was analyzed by factor analysis. The questionnaire's reliability and validity were also examined. The data were then analyzed with multiple correlation comparisons and an independent sample T-test. Results Six factors emerged for families of children with ASD. The results showed that the cumulative explanatory variance of the six dimensions of the questionnaire was 65.42%. The Cronbach's coefficient of each dimension was between 0.7 and 0.9, and the combined Cronbach's coefficient of the total questionnaire was 0.945. This study found that the overall average positive contribution to families by children with ASD was 3.32, which is at a medium level, and all six dimensions were at a medium-to-high level. This study also found that the family's monthly income contributed to the overall positive contribution, intimacy and happiness, and gaining more special knowledge through experience dimensions. Furthermore, it was found that moderate severity of ASD, high income, and parental employment were all associated with more positive contributions. Conclusion This new questionnaire appears to have good reliability and validity and seems suitable for assessing the positive contributions to families by children with ASD in China. Implications The present study may be helpful for the parents of children with ASD and will likely help them focus on the strengths of their children rather than their shortcomings. The study might also benefit counselors and researchers who would be able to use the new questionnaire to evaluate the positive contributions made to families by children who have ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulan Zeng
- College of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Afsheen Sardar
- College of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Amoneeta Beckstein
- College of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | | | - Renhong Shen
- College of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunhui Xiu
- College of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
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Van Riper M, Cosgrove B, Fleming L. Adaptation at the Family Level in Families of Individuals With Down Syndrome: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF FAMILY NURSING 2023; 29:324-347. [PMID: 37066798 PMCID: PMC10629249 DOI: 10.1177/10748407231163236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is a chromosomal disorder associated with intellectual and physical disabilities and has historically been viewed by health care providers through a negative lens when considering the effect the condition has on the individual, family, and community. The purpose of this scoping review was to provide an overview of recent research concerning adaptation in families of individuals with DS with a focus on family adaptation rather than individual or dyadic adaptation. Three literature indexes were searched from 2017 to 2022, with 41 articles included. Foci of the studies included strength/resilience, stress/coping, and negative/challenge. Thirteen studies reported using a family framework. Multiple methodological approaches and family measures were used in the studies and are outlined. Findings from this review show there has been a shift in focus when researching families of individuals with DS from a negative and challenging experience to one of strength and resilience.
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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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Wilkinson E, Vo LTV, London Z, Wilson S, Bal VH. Parent-Reported Strengths and Positive Qualities of Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or Intellectual Disability. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 52:5471-5482. [PMID: 35064451 PMCID: PMC9304434 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05405-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite increasing attention to understanding strengths in those on the autism spectrum, few studies have explored this in older individuals. The present study provides a qualitative analysis of parent-reported strengths and positive qualities of 68 15-30-year-olds with autism and/or intellectual disability (ID). Most parents (97%) reported at least one positive quality. Themes were consistent with previous studies; Personality characteristics (82%) and Sociability (53%) were reported most frequently. A Work Ethic/Motivation category not previously reported emerged. Autistic individuals (with/without ID) were more likely than those with ID-only to have a Specific Skill. Findings highlight the importance of recognizing strengths of autistic adults. Research is needed to understand how to best leverage positive qualities to promote goal achievement and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Wilkinson
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Le Thao Vy Vo
- Western New England University, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Zoe London
- School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Sherri Wilson
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Vanessa H Bal
- Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
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Daulay N. Home education for children with autism spectrum disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic: Indonesian mothers experience. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 114:103954. [PMID: 33882385 PMCID: PMC9758886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.103954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers and efforts in implementing home education for children with autism, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. Five mothers were recruited as participants and interviewed online, as the data obtained were examined through the use of thematic analysis. Also, three main themes were shown, (1) Mothers' experience in implementing home education, as regards adaptability and burden of caregiving, (2) The constraints in home education implementation, as regards maladaptive behaviours of ASD and emerging negative emotions, (3) The efforts to alleviate barriers, as regards problem-focused and religious copings. Also, the implementation of home education during the pandemic was less than optimal, due to the increase in maladaptive behaviours of the autistic children, low adaptability, the burden of caregiving, and emerging negative emotions. Appropriate coping strategies were also observed to help mothers in alleviating the constraints to implementing home education and parenting stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurussakinah Daulay
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teaching, Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Indonesia.
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Van Riper M, Knafl GJ, Barbieri-Figueiredo MDC, Caples M, Choi H, de Graaf G, Duarte ED, Honda J, Marta E, Phetrasuwan S, Alfieri S, Angelo M, Deoisres W, Fleming L, dos Santos AS, Rocha da Silva MJ, Skelton B, van der Veek S, Knafl KA. Measurement of Family Management in Families of Individuals With Down Syndrome: A Cross-Cultural Investigation. JOURNAL OF FAMILY NURSING 2021; 27:8-22. [PMID: 33272069 PMCID: PMC7897787 DOI: 10.1177/1074840720975167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability worldwide. The purpose of this analysis was to determine the internal consistency reliability of eight language versions of the Family Management Measure (FaMM) and compare family management of DS across cultures. A total of 2,740 parents of individuals with DS from 11 countries completed the FaMM. The analysis provided evidence of internal consistency reliability exceeding .70 for four of six FaMM scales for the entire sample. Across countries, there was a pattern of positive family management. Cross-cultural comparisons revealed parents from Brazil, Spain, and the United States had the most positive family management and respondents from Ireland, Italy, Japan, and Korea had the least positive. The rankings were mixed for the four remaining countries. These findings provide evidence of overall strong internal consistency reliability of the FaMM. More cross-cultural research is needed to understand how social determinants of health influence family management in families of individuals with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia Van Riper
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
- Marcia Van Riper, School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall, Room 433, Campus Box 7460, 120 N. Medical Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | - Gert de Graaf
- Dutch Down Syndrome Foundation, Meppel, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Elena Marta
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Sara Alfieri
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Beth Skelton
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
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Cai RY, Uljarević M, Leekam SR. Predicting Mental Health and Psychological Wellbeing in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Roles of Intolerance of Uncertainty and Coping. Autism Res 2020; 13:1797-1801. [PMID: 32618140 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Research has consistently shown that parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more likely to report chronic stress and symptoms of psychopathology when compared to parents of typically developing children and children with other psychological or physical conditions. Certain individual characteristics might either put parents at risk or allow them to cope more effectively under the strenuous conditions of raising children with neurodevelopmental conditions. Previous research has suggested that higher levels of intolerance of uncertainty and certain coping styles are associated with higher parental levels of anxiety and depression. The aim of this study is to characterize the way in which intolerance of uncertainty and coping (avoidant and problem-focused coping) predict mental health and psychological wellbeing in parents of children with ASD. Only mothers participated in this study. Fifty mothers (Mage = 44.28 years, SDage = 6.58) of children with ASD completed questionnaires assessing anxiety and depression, psychological wellbeing, intolerance of uncertainty, and avoidant and problem-focused coping. The results from this study provide preliminary evidence that higher use of problem-focused coping but not avoidant coping and intolerance of uncertainty predicts psychological wellbeing. Furthermore, our observation of greater intolerance of uncertainty and higher use of avoidant coping predicting anxiety and depression supports previous research. The findings from this study have implications for the development of intervention programs to help improve the mental health and psychological wellbeing of parents. LAY SUMMARY: This research studied the factors that impact the mental health of parents of children on the autism spectrum. We found that mothers, who are not comfortable with uncertainty, use more avoidant coping, and less problem-focused coping have poorer mental health. Identifying these factors is a crucial first step in developing intervention programs to help improve the mental health of parents. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1797-1801. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Ying Cai
- Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice, Autism Spectrum Australia, Flemington, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Educational Studies, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mirko Uljarević
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan R Leekam
- Wales Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Sheldon JP, Oliver M, Yashar BM. Rewards and challenges of parenting a child with Down syndrome: a qualitative study of fathers' perceptions. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 43:3562-3573. [PMID: 32255374 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1745907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Most studies on parenting children with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities have focused on stress and coping; however, research has shown many rewards in parenting such children. Additionally, most research has assessed mothers' rather than fathers' perspectives. To take steps toward filling these literature gaps, we asked fathers of children with Down syndrome about their parenting experiences.Methods: Participants were 175 fathers of children with Down syndrome. Open-ended questions asked fathers what they found most rewarding and challenging about parenting a child with Down syndrome. Researchers coded responses using inductive content analysis.Results: Key themes for rewards included: (1) Child's Positive Attributes and Behaviors; (2) Rewarding Father-Child Relationship; (3) Child Has Positively Changed Father; and (4) Father's Positive Relationship with Others. Key themes for challenges included: (1) Father's Thoughts, Emotions, and Behaviors; (2) Child's Challenging Behavior and Development; (3) System and Institutional Problems; and (4) Other People's Negative Attitudes/Behaviors.Conclusions: Rewards mainly concerned the father-child bond and the loving, happy child. Fathers rarely mentioned financial stressors or their children's negative behaviors. Instead, many fathers reported children's speech problems. Our findings may assist healthcare professionals in providing more beneficial resources and interventions (especially language-related ones) to families with a child with Down syndrome.Implications for rehabilitationConsistent with a positive psychology approach, fathers reported more rewards than challenges in raising a child with Down syndrome.There may be a need for greater involvement of fathers in language interventions for children with Down syndrome.Healthcare professionals can assist parents of children with Down syndrome in recognizing parenting rewards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane P Sheldon
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, MI, USA
| | - Mary Oliver
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Beverly M Yashar
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Beighton C, Wills J. How parents describe the positive aspects of parenting their child who has intellectual disabilities: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2019; 32:1255-1279. [PMID: 31111640 PMCID: PMC6852490 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Identifying what parents describe to be positive about parenting their child who has intellectual disabilities is important for professional practice and how parents can be supported over a lifespan. Methods Studies in which parents describe the positive aspects of parenting their child with intellectual disabilities were identified via electronic databases searches and analysed in a narrative synthesis. Results Twenty‐two studies were included. Consistent themes emerged relating to positive change, increased personal strength, growth and development largely related to parental intrapersonal orientation. Several studies emphasized that the presence of growth or positive change does not imply the absence of distress. Conclusions Positive aspects are not consistently defined and measured differently across studies. Consistent themes are described variously attributed to theories relating to coping, adaptation or growth following adversity; however, no single theoretical framework emerged. Factors likely to predict a parent's ability to identify positive aspects are inconclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Beighton
- Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Kingston and St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Jane Wills
- School of Health and Social Care, London Southbank University, London, UK
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"I Would Like for My Child to be Happy with His Life": Parental Hopes for Their Children with ASD Across the Lifespan. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 49:2049-2068. [PMID: 30689082 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-03882-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to understand the hopes of parents with children with ASD. Particularly understudied are the hopes parents have for long-term outcomes for their child. A cross-sectional focus group design was used and six focus groups were completed. These groups included parents of (1) preschool aged children who were recently diagnosed, (2) children in early elementary school, (3) children in later elementary school, (4) children in middle school, (5) children in high school, and (6) children who are adults with ASD. Results indicated 77.4% of the data were devoted to hopes for the children's independence, happiness, and skill improvement; increased authentic socially significant relationships; and future employment.
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Ozturk Y, Vivanti G, Uljarevic M, Dissanayake C. Treatment-related changes in children's communication impact on maternal satisfaction and psychological distress. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2016; 56:128-138. [PMID: 27295207 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2016.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with autism have been found to have reduced psychological well-being that has usually been linked to the stress related to managing their child's symptoms. As children's behavior and cognitive functioning are subject to change when suitable early intervention programs are put in place, it is plausible that positive treatment-related changes in the child will have a positive impact on parental distress. AIMS We undertook an individual differences study to investigate whether maternal psychological distress is affected by the outcomes of children receiving intervention. METHODS AND PROCEDURES The participants comprised 43 mothers of preschool children with ASD enrolled in an early intervention program for 12 months. OUTCOME AND RESULTS Child and family factors were linked to maternal psychological distress. However treatment-related changes in children's communication, as assessed on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales II, and parenting satisfaction uniquely contributed to psychological distress above and beyond other factors. A mediation analysis indicated that mothers whose children make treatment gains in communication skills experience lower levels of psychological distress as a consequence of higher levels of parenting satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The findings highlight improvements in everyday adaptive communication skills in children with ASD impact on mothers' satisfaction and distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagmur Ozturk
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Giacomo Vivanti
- AJ Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Mirko Uljarevic
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychological Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychological Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
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Nicholas DB, Zwaigenbaum L, Ing S, MacCulloch R, Roberts W, McKeever P, McMorris CA. "Live It to Understand It": The Experiences of Mothers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2016; 26:921-934. [PMID: 26612886 DOI: 10.1177/1049732315616622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Mothers of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) variably experience challenges in their caregiving role. This ethnographic study examined the caregiving experiences of mothers of a young person with ASD (aged ≤25 years). Semistructured interviews were conducted with 85 mothers across three Canadian regions. A follow-up subsample of 10 mothers took part in participant observation sessions in the home and/or other environments within the community. Analysis yielded themes that depicted the following: redefining child and family aspirations, forging a shifted identity, and the need to "live it" to understand mothering a young person with ASD. Supports and services were perceived to be required but often insufficient to meet the needs. Findings identify a range of challenges, lessons learned, and a reconfigured sense of mothering. An emerging model of mothering a child with ASD is presented. Implications for practice, policy, and research are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stanley Ing
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Wendy Roberts
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patricia McKeever
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Parental Self-Efficacy and Positive Contributions Regarding Autism Spectrum Condition: An Actor–Partner Interdependence Model. J Autism Dev Disord 2016; 46:2385-98. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2771-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Alexander T, Walendzik J. Raising a Child with Down Syndrome: Do Preferred Coping Strategies Explain Differences in Parental Health? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.4236/psych.2016.71005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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