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Brennan J, Ward OF, Tomeny TS, Davis TE. A Systematic Review of Parental Self-Efficacy in Parents of Autistic Children. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2024:10.1007/s10567-024-00495-2. [PMID: 39160428 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-024-00495-2] [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: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Parental self-efficacy (PSE) assesses a parent's expectations and beliefs about their ability to effectively parent their child. PSE has implications for a parent's well-being, parenting practices, mental health, the parent-child relationship, and child adjustment. While PSE has been extensively examined within the broader parenting literature, the examination of PSE specifically for parents of autistic children has gained increasing attention in recent years. The following systematic review aimed to investigate the role of PSE for parents of autistic children by examining variables that predict PSE or are predicted by PSE in relation to how they align with the broader parenting literature and are unique to autism. Utilizing PRISMA guidelines, peer-reviewed articles were included if (a) participants included caregivers of autistic children, (b) at least one quantitative outcome measure of PSE was utilized, and (c) the role of PSE was examined as an outcome, predictor, or variable in an explanatory model. A total of 53 studies were included in the review and the role of PSE was examined regarding family (e.g., parental characteristics, parent stress, well-being, and support) and child factors (e.g., autism symptomology, problem behaviors, interventions). Several themes emerged including a positive relationship between PSE and support, and a negative relationship between PSE and parenting stress, parent mental health outcomes (e.g., anxiety, depression), and autism symptomology. Findings were compared to the broader parenting and PSE literature to examine how increased considerations and challenges (e.g., child problem behaviors, social impairment, and caregiver strain) associated with raising an autistic child might impact PSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Brennan
- Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, 348 Gordon Palmer Hall, Box 870348, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA.
| | - Olivia F Ward
- Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, 348 Gordon Palmer Hall, Box 870348, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA
| | - Theodore S Tomeny
- Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, 348 Gordon Palmer Hall, Box 870348, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA
| | - Thompson E Davis
- Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, 348 Gordon Palmer Hall, Box 870348, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
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2
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Fang Y, Luo J, Boele M, Windhorst D, van Grieken A, Raat H. Parent, child, and situational factors associated with parenting stress: a systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:1687-1705. [PMID: 35876894 PMCID: PMC11211171 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-02027-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Parenting stress has been related to adverse health outcomes in parents, children, and their families. This systematic review aimed to provide an overview of parental, child, and situational factors related to parenting stress in mothers and fathers. We searched Embase, Medline Epub (Ovid), PsychInfo (Ovid), Web of Science, and Google scholar for studies published between January 1980 and May 2021 evaluating the association between at least one factor and parenting stress. Studies were included only if they reported the association in a general population sample of mothers and fathers with children aged 0-12 years. The parent-child relationship model by Abidin guided the data synthesis. Quality of the evidence was assessed using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers from a variety of fields. In total, 29 studies were included with excellent quality (55%), good (31%), and adequate (14%) methodological quality. There was evidence of an association between maternal depression, child overall problems, child externalizing and internalizing problems, social support, maternal educational level and maternal parenting stress. Evidence was inconsistent for an association between maternal anxiety, family income and maternal parenting stress. There was no evidence of an association for maternal age, child sex and maternal parenting stress. Several modifiable factors (i.e., parental depression and social support) were identified that might guide the development of preventive interventions. Future research should employ longitudinal study designs evaluating protective and risk factors and the pathways that lead to parenting stress, among both fathers and mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Fang
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jie Luo
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes Boele
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pulmonary Department, Franciscus Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dafna Windhorst
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- TNO Child Health, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Amy van Grieken
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Hein Raat
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Menezes M, Soland J, Mazurek MO. Association Between Neighborhood Support and Family Resilience in Households with Autistic Children. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:1765-1773. [PMID: 36928636 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05951-6] [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: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
The capacity of families with autistic children to demonstrate resilience is a notable strength that has received little attention in the literature. A potential predictor of family resilience in households with autistic youth is neighborhood support. This study examined the relationship between neighborhood support and family resilience in households with autistic youth utilizing data from the National Survey of Children's Health. A structural equation model was constructed as neighborhood support and family resilience were latent variables. Findings demonstrated that neighborhood support significantly predicts family resilience. This study contributes to the literature as the first quantitative investigation of predictors of family resilience with this group. Strengths of autistic youth, their families, and their communities can be and should be leveraged to address challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jim Soland
- University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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MacKenzie KT, Crown MJ, Northrup JB, Rutenberg E, Hartman AG, Mazefsky CA. Correlates of Impairment and Growth in Families of Young Autistic Children. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06339-w. [PMID: 38625489 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06339-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to investigate potential correlates of family life impairment in families of young autistic children. This project incorporated measures of specific child and parent challenges in addition to a commonly used unidimensional measure of autism characteristics. In this way, we could assess whether such challenges explain variance in family life impairment, and whether their inclusion diminish associations between autism characteristics and family life impairment. Cross-sectional data were collected from 564 parents of autistic children aged 2 to 5 years who participated in a larger online study. Participants completed measures on child characteristics (autism characteristics, emotion dysregulation, speaking ability, flexibility, and sleep problems), parent depression, and family life impairment, using the Family Life Impairment Scale (FLIS). Multiple linear regression models were generated to examine whether any of the independent variables were associated with the four domains of the FLIS. Models controlled for child age and sex, parent education, and single-parent homes. All independent variables were associated with impairment in one or more FLIS domains. None of the primary independent variables were significantly associated with positive growth. More overt characteristics and behaviors (e.g., autism characteristics, reactivity, speaking ability, and flexibility) were associated with impairment in domains that reflected a family's ability to navigate the community. However, sleep challenges and parent and child emotional difficulties were most strongly associated with parent impairment. Findings suggests that families may have different needs across contexts and provide new avenues through which they might be better supported.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mario J Crown
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Amy G Hartman
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Carla A Mazefsky
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Neece CL, Fenning RM, Morrell HER, Benjamin LR. Comparative effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction and psychoeducational support on parenting stress in families of autistic preschoolers. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:985-998. [PMID: 37555286 PMCID: PMC10853488 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231191558] [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] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Parents of autistic children often experience high levels of parenting stress, which can have negative mental and physical effects on both the parent and child. This study tested the efficacy of mindfulness-based stress reduction in reducing parenting stress in parents of preschool-aged autistic children compared to a psychoeducation and support intervention. We assessed parenting stress before and after the interventions and at 6- and 12-month follow-up. Both interventions significantly decreased parenting stress, but mindfulness-based stress reduction reduced stress more than did psychoeducation and support, with the strongest effect observed 1 year later. This suggests that the stress-reducing benefits of mindfulness-based stress reduction persist and may increase over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron L. Neece
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Suite 119, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
| | - Rachel M. Fenning
- Department of Psychological Science and The Claremont Autism Center, Claremont McKenna College; 850 Columbia Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711, United States
| | - Holly E. R. Morrell
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Suite 119, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
| | - Laurel R. Benjamin
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Suite 119, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
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Desquenne Godfrey G, Downes N, Cappe E. A Systematic Review of Family Functioning in Families of Children on the Autism Spectrum. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:1036-1057. [PMID: 36626001 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05830-6] [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: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This article aims to review the literature on family functioning in the field of autism. The search was conducted in August 2021 in PubMed, PsycINFO, and PubPsy and sixty-two articles were included. Studies were published in English between 1980 and 2021 and provided quantitative data from validated measures of family functioning in families with an official diagnosis of autism. Results showed that family functioning appeared more problematic for families of autistic children than non-autistic ones. Difficulties were correlated with more caregiver demand and less resources. Interventional results varied. The findings highlight the importance of considering family functioning when providing care for autistic children and their families. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed.Prospero registration number: CRD42022297696.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwendoline Desquenne Godfrey
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, F-92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Naomi Downes
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, F-92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Emilie Cappe
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, F-92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
- Institut universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France.
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Huang J, Wu H, Jiang J, Yang L, Li K, Wang T. The enhanced emotional negativity bias in parents of atypically developing children: Evidence from an event-related potentials study. Psychophysiology 2024; 61:e14517. [PMID: 38189559 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14517] [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] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Parents of atypically developing children such as parents of children with ASD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disability experience higher levels of parenting stress than parents of typically developing children. However, whether they possess enhanced emotional negativity bias was unclear. In the present study, 28 parents of typically developing children and 29 parents of atypically developing children were recruited. The emotional Stroop task and event-related potentials were adopted to measure their emotional negativity bias, in which participants were required to respond to the borders' color of face pictures. Behaviorally, the impact of parenting stress on emotional negativity bias was not found. At the electrophysiological level, the P2 differential amplitude (negative minus positive) was greater in parents of atypically developing children than in parents of typically developing children, reflecting an enhanced early attentional bias toward negative faces. N2 amplitude for the emotionally negative face was smaller than the positive face in parents of atypically developing children, indicating a too weak attentional control to inhibit distractors. Furthermore, sustained attention to negative faces was observed in parents of atypically developing children, that is, the emotionally negative face elicited greater frontal P3 (300 ~ 500 ms) than the positive faces. These findings revealed that compared to parents of typically developing children, parents of atypically developing children owned an enhanced emotional negativity bias at the early and late stages of information processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Huang
- School of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Psychological Diagnosis and Education Technology for Children with Special Needs, Chongqing, China
| | - Haidong Wu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Psychological Diagnosis and Education Technology for Children with Special Needs, Chongqing, China
- School of Mathematics, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Basic Psychology, School of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linhui Yang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Psychological Diagnosis and Education Technology for Children with Special Needs, Chongqing, China
- Changsha Special Education School, Changsha, China
| | - Kuiliang Li
- School of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Psychological Diagnosis and Education Technology for Children with Special Needs, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Wang
- School of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Psychological Diagnosis and Education Technology for Children with Special Needs, Chongqing, China
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Li W, Song C, Hu L, Wu L, Zhu Z. Influence of parental education on the intelligence quotient profiles and socially adaptive behavior of school-age children with autism spectrum disorder in eastern China. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38423538 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2300354] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Intelligence quotient (IQ) and adaptive behavior are the influencing factors of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children entering mainstream schools. This study explored the association between parental education level, IQ, and adaptive behavior in ASD groups. A total of 257 school-age ASD children were enrolled in our study from January 2017 to June 2021. Their parents completed a standard demographic form, including age at autism diagnosis, gender, school placement, and parents' educational background. The Chinese version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fourth Edition (WISC-IV) was completed by a certified assessor for each enrolled child. Parents were interviewed on adaptive behavior using the Chinese version of the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System, Second Edition (ABAS-II). The average IQ of school-age ASD children was 76.88 (standard deviation (SD)=22.62) and boys had higher IQ levels than girls. The IQ was positively correlated with age. The General Adaptive Composite (GAC) score was 82.47 (SD=15.86) and adaptive behavior did not increase with age. ASD children who attended mainstream schools had better adaptive behavior profiles than other children. The mother's education level showed a significant correlation with the IQ and adaptive behavior of autistic children, while the father's education level did not. Consequently, better training and support for parents may help autistic children enter mainstream schools, with adaptive training being the most urgently required skill for parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Li
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Centre for Child Health, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Chao Song
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Centre for Child Health, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Lifei Hu
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Centre for Child Health, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Centre for Child Health, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhu
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Centre for Child Health, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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Chan V, Albaum CS, Khanlou N, Westra H, Weiss JA. Parent Involvement in Mental Health Treatment for Autistic Children: A Grounded Theory-Informed Qualitative Analysis. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2023:10.1007/s10578-023-01621-x. [PMID: 37847326 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-023-01621-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for many autistic children experiencing mental health problems, and parents are particularly involved in their psychotherapy. This study presents a conceptual framework of successful parent involvement in CBT for autistic children. Seventeen therapists (94% female) and 11 mothers were interviewed about their involvement in a CBT program for autistic children ages 8-13 years. The conceptual framework depicts how parent involvement varies depending on child, parent, and environmental factors. Parents' contributions to therapy were grouped into five main roles. Parents' beliefs and attitudes toward therapy also influenced their involvement. This is the first study to empirically investigate how parents of autistic children contribute to the therapeutic process in CBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Chan
- Department of Psychology, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Carly S Albaum
- Department of Psychology, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Henny Westra
- Department of Psychology, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Jonathan A Weiss
- Department of Psychology, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
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El Tahir M. Stress Levels and Coping Strategies of Families of Adults With Intellectual Disability and Challenging Behaviours During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Qatar. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES : JOID 2023; 27:689-700. [PMID: 35422144 PMCID: PMC9014332 DOI: 10.1177/17446295211062381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the perceived stress levels and coping strategies of caregivers of adults with intellectual disability and challenging behaviours during the COVID-19 pandemic in Qatar. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June 7 to September 7, 2020 for caregivers of adults diagnosed with intellectual disability and challenging behaviours. Perceived stress levels and coping strategies were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale and Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced inventory. Results showed moderate to high perceived stress levels in most caregivers (69%). The most frequent coping strategy was religion, followed by acceptance and active coping. Substance use and self-blame were less frequently used. The study revealed that emotional support, informational support and venting coping strategies were significant predictors of perceived stress levels. Restrictions on physical activity and social mobility caused by pandemic-related lockdowns have placed tremendous pressure on caregivers. Appropriate supportive measures should be implemented for the caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El Tahir
- Mohamed El Tahir, Mental Health Services,
Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, P O BOX 3050, Doha, Qatar.
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Iwamoto BK, Neece CL, Nair A, Rockwood NJ, Fenning RM, Krantz ML, Van Dyk TR. Exploring Bidirectional Relationships: Child Sleep Duration, Child Behavior Problems, and Parenting Stress in Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 2023; 106:102197. [PMID: 37484880 PMCID: PMC10358315 DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2023.102197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are at-risk for sleep and behavior problems, and their parents are at-risk for high stress. Child sleep duration, behavior problems, and parenting stress are interrelated; however, directionality of these associations is unclear and research including youth with ASD is lacking. Using a day-to-day, within-person design, this study explores the directionality of these relationships in families of children with ASD. Method Twenty-six children (ages 3-5, 73.1% male, 65.4% Hispanic/Latino) with ASD and their mothers participated in a 14-day study. Child sleep duration (parent-report and actigraphy), behavior problems, and parenting stress were measured daily. Constructs were decomposed into their within- and between-person components and analyzed with random intercept cross-lagged panel models. Results While between-person relationships were directionally expected in that shorter sleep, more behavior problems, and greater parenting stress were associated, within-person relationships were complicated. Better-than-average child behavior was associated with less next-day parenting stress, yet more parenting stress than average was associated with better next-day child behavior. As expected, longer-than-average child sleep was associated with less next-day parenting stress, while greater child behavior problems were associated with less sleep that night. Conclusions Understanding the directionality of associations between child and parent factors allows for the optimization of interventions to improve the quality of life for families of children with ASD. Interventions that target child behavior and/or help parents manage stress while maintaining effective parenting strategies for sleep and behavior may be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke K. Iwamoto
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
| | - Cameron L. Neece
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
| | - Aarti Nair
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
| | - Nicholas J. Rockwood
- Division of Interdisciplinary Studies, Loma Linda University; 11065 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA 92350, United States
| | - Rachel M. Fenning
- Department of Psychological Science and The Claremont Autism Center, Claremont McKenna College; 850 Columbia Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711, United States
| | - Megan L. Krantz
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
| | - Tori R. Van Dyk
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University; 11130 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
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12
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Leighton SC, Rodriguez KE, Nieforth LO, O’Haire ME. Service dogs for autistic children and family system functioning: a constant comparative analysis. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1210095. [PMID: 37520226 PMCID: PMC10373301 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1210095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Service dog placements for autistic children are growing in popularity, yet findings to date are mixed. Moreover, no study to date has examined these placements through the lens of a recognized theoretical model. The purpose of this study is twofold: to explore experiences reported by caretakers of autistic children involved in a service dog program, and to contextualize findings within an established theoretical framework. Methods A total of n = 50 caretakers of autistic children (n = 38 with and n = 12 without a service dog) were recruited through the national non-profit service dog provider Canine Companions. Participants completed an online survey through Qualtrics which asked open-ended questions about their experiences, both negative and positive. Results Constant comparative analysis identified two high level themes, nested within a family systems approach framework: (1) Enhancing social functioning of the family system unit and (2) Fostering stability and strength within family system subunits. These themes interacted holistically to foster and reinforce family system resilience. Placements led to greater social inclusion for children and their families, acted as a highly individualized intervention, and decreased experiences of judgement and stigma. Perceived as members of the family, service dogs may coregulate with the autistic child and family members and can be a source of joyful connection within the family. Discussion Results highlighted the service dog's influence on the entire family (beyond the autistic child). Implications for service dog organizations suggest it may be helpful to account for family-wide impacts throughout the placement process. High standards on the part of provider organizations may minimize negatives, optimizing outcomes for both humans and canines. Ultimately, findings enrich our understanding of service dog interventions for autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C. Leighton
- OHAIRE Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Kerri E. Rodriguez
- Human-Animal Bond Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Leanne O. Nieforth
- OHAIRE Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Marguerite E. O’Haire
- OHAIRE Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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Dimachkie Nunnally A, Factor RS, Sturm A, Valluripalli Soorya L, Wainer A, Taylor S, Ponzini M, Abbeduto L, Gulsrud AC. Examining indicators of psychosocial risk and resilience in parents of autistic children. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1102516. [PMID: 37255619 PMCID: PMC10226532 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1102516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Parents of autistic children experience increased levels of caregiver strain and adverse mental health outcomes, even in comparison to parents of children with other neurodevelopmental disabilities. Previous studies have largely attributed these increased levels of mental health concerns to their child behavioral concerns and autism symptomatology, but less attention has been given to other potential child factors, such as child adaptive functioning. Additionally, little is known about potential protective factors, such as parents' emotion regulation (ER) abilities, that may ameliorate the experience of caregiver strain, anxiety, and depression. Objective The current study examined the impact of child characteristics (restricted and repetitive behaviors, adaptive functioning and behavioral concerns) on parent mental health outcomes (caregiver strain, anxiety, depression and wellbeing). Additionally, we explore parents' ER abilities as a moderator of the impact of child characteristic on parents' mental health outcomes. Results Results of linear mixed effect models indicated a significant relationship between parents' ER abilities and all four parent outcomes. Additionally, children's adaptive functioning abilities and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) were significant predictors of caregiving strain. Parents' ER abilities were a significant moderator of the effect of children's repetitive behaviors and adaptive functioning challenges on caregiver strain, such that better ER abilities mitigated the impact of child clinical factors on caregiver strain. Finally, a significant difference was detected for mothers' and fathers' mental health, with mothers reporting higher caregiver strain, and more symptoms of anxiety and depression than did fathers. Conclusion This study leveraged a large sample of autistic children and their biological parents to examine the relationship between children's clinical characteristics and parents' psychological wellbeing. Results indicate that, although parents of autistic children do experience high rates of internalizing mental health concerns that relate to child adaptive functioning and RRBs, parent ER abilities act as a protective factor against parents' adverse mental health outcomes. Further, mothers in our sample reported significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, and caregiver strain, as compared with fathers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Dimachkie Nunnally
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Reina S. Factor
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Alexandra Sturm
- Department of Psychological Science, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Latha Valluripalli Soorya
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Allison Wainer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sandra Taylor
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Matthew Ponzini
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Leonard Abbeduto
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Amanda C. Gulsrud
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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14
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Fu W, Li R, Zhang Y, Huang K. Parenting Stress and Parenting Efficacy of Parents Having Children with Disabilities in China: The Role of Social Support. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2133. [PMID: 36767500 PMCID: PMC9915991 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Raising children with disabilities is challenging for parents, who experience high parenting stress. The study aimed to understand the status quo of parenting efficacy of parents having children with disabilities and to analyze the association between parent efficacy, parenting stress, and social support in China. We surveyed 373 parents having children with disabilities enrolled in special education schools or rehabilitation institutions from 14 provinces in China. The online questionnaire including Parental Stress Index-Short Form, the Child Adjustment and Parent Efficacy Scale-Developmental Disability (CAPES-DD), and Social Support Scale was applied in the study. The results suggested that parenting efficacy of parents having children with disabilities in China was at the medium level. Parenting stress, social support, and parenting efficacy were significantly related with each other, and social support played a mediating role between parenting stress and parenting efficacy. The findings indicated that reducing parenting stress and improving social support might improve parenting efficacy. We also discussed the implications of providing intervention strategies or social support to improve parenting efficacy for parents with disabled children in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wangqian Fu
- School of Special Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Rui Li
- School of Education, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Yaqian Zhang
- Faculty of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Ke Huang
- Alum Rock Union School District, San Jose, CA 95127, USA
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15
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Pierucci JM, Aquino GA, Pearson A, Perez M, Mwanza-Kabaghe S, Sichimba F, Mooya H. Parent-mediated intervention training for caregivers of children with developmental differences in Zambia. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 132:104373. [PMID: 36413886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lower- and middle-income countries (LAMICs) are under-resourced and have limited intervention services for children with developmental differences and their families. A logical method to address service gaps within resource-scarce contexts is to train caregivers as interventionists, specifically using empirically-supported parent-mediated Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (P-M NDBIs; Kasari et al., 2010; Ingersoll & Wainer, 2013). AIMS The study implemented the first P-M NDBI in Zambia and aimed to train caregivers and improve children's social-communication skills. METHODS/PROCEDURES The current study utilized a mixed-methods, pre-post design and implemented Project ImPACT (Ingersoll & Dvortcsak, 2010, 2019). Participants included 19 Zambian caregivers of children (n = 20) with developmental differences including autism spectrum condition, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. OUTCOMES/RESULTS Findings indicated that children's language skills and pretend play skills significantly improved from pre- to post-assessment, and caregivers most frequently used intervention strategies for modeling communication and prompting communication. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS The success and feasibility of implementing Project ImPACT in Zambia, and recommendations for culturally adapting and implementing P-M NDBIs in LAMICs, were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian M Pierucci
- Department of Psychology, St. Mary's University, One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio, TX 78228, USA.
| | - Gabriela A Aquino
- Department of Human Development & Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, 110 Inner Campus Drive, Austin, TX 78705, USA.
| | - Alexandra Pearson
- Department of Psychology, Houston Community College, 3100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002, USA.
| | - Monica Perez
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, 220 Main Building, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA.
| | - Sylvia Mwanza-Kabaghe
- Department of Educational Psychology, Sociology and Special Education, University of Zambia, Great East Road Campus, P.O. Box 32379 Lusaka, Zambia.
| | - Francis Sichimba
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Great East Road Campus, P.O. Box 32379 Lusaka, Zambia.
| | - Haatembo Mooya
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Great East Road Campus, P.O. Box 32379 Lusaka, Zambia.
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16
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Shirwaikar RD, Sarwari I, Najam M, M SH. Has Machine Learning Enhanced the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder? Crit Rev Biomed Eng 2023; 51:1-14. [PMID: 37522537 DOI: 10.1615/critrevbiomedeng.v51.i1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological condition that limits an individual's capacity for communication and learning throughout their life. Although symptoms of Autism can be diagnosed in individuals of different ages, it is labeled as a developmental disorder because symptoms typically start to show up in the initial 2 years of childhood. Autism has no single known cause but multiple factors contribute to its etiology in children. Because symptoms and severity of ASD vary in every individual, there could be many causes. Detection of ASD in the early stages is crucial for providing a path for rehabilitation that enhances the quality of life and integrates the ASD person into the social, family, and professional spheres. Assessment of ASD includes experienced observers in neutral environments, which brings constraints and biases to a lack of credibility and fails to accurately reflect performance in terms of real-world scenarios. To get around these limitations, the conducted review offers a thorough analysis of the impact on the individual and the ones living around them and most recent research on how these techniques are implemented in the diagnosis of ASD. As a result of improvements in technology, assessments now include processing unconventional data than can be collected from measurements arising out of laboratory chemistry or of electrophysiological origin. Examples of these technologies include virtual reality and sensors including eye-tracking imaging. Studies have been conducted towards recognition of emotion and brain networks to identify functional connectivity and discriminate between people with ASD and people who are thought to be typically developing. Diagnosis of Autism has recently made substantial use of long short term memory (LSTM), convolutional neural network (CNN) and its variants, the random forest (RF) and naive Bayes (NB) machine learning techniques. It is hoped that researchers will develop methodologies that increase the probability of identification of ASD in its varied forms and contribute towards improved lifestyle for patients with ASD and those affected by the pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudresh Deepak Shirwaikar
- Department of Computer Engineering, Agnel Institute of Technology and Design (AITD), Goa University, Assagao, Goa, India, 403507
| | - Iram Sarwari
- Department of Information Science and Engineering, Ramaiah Institute of Technology (RIT), Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560064
| | - Mehwish Najam
- Department of Information Science and Engineering, Ramaiah Institute of Technology (RIT), Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560064
| | - Shama H M
- BMS Institute of Technology and Management (BMSIT), Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560064
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17
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Anxiety in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Clinical Characteristics and the Role of the Family. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121597. [PMID: 36552057 PMCID: PMC9775263 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121597] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety Disorder (AD) is among the most common psychiatric comorbidity in children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Likewise, parental psychological distress (PPD) was linked to anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ASD. The aim of this study was to characterise, in a sample of children and adolescents with ASD, anxiety symptoms, the functional impairment associated and the presence of PPD. METHODS Participants were divided into three groups based on their diagnosis: children and adolescents with a diagnosis of ASD + AD, others with a diagnosis of AD but without a diagnosis of ASD, and others with a diagnosis of ASD but without a diagnosis of AD. RESULTS Group ASD + AD showed lower global functioning than Group ASD and Group AD. Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder and Specific Phobias were more frequent in Group ASD + AD. Our findings also showed higher depressive symptoms in Group ASD + AD, both in the child and parent reports. Finally, parents of the Group ASD + AD revealed higher levels of PPD. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that early assessment of AD with functional impairment associated with the role of PPD could define individualised treatments and consequently mean a better prognosis in children and adolescents with ASD and AD.
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18
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Appleby R, Wright S, Williams L, Stanley M. Australian parents' experiences of owning an autism assistance dog. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e4113-e4121. [PMID: 35352418 PMCID: PMC10084065 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Autism assistance dogs (AADs) increase safety for children with autism and their families. Autism assistance dogs can also decrease familial stress and the isolation which families may experience due to fear for their child's safety and judgement from others within the community. Currently there is a paucity of literature on parents' experiences of AADs. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a rich understanding of parents' experiences of owning an AAD. A mixed methods design was utilised, with a qualitative descriptive design and the use of occupational mapping. Eight families were recruited through an Australian AAD programme and participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews throughout 2017. The interviews were analysed thematically. Mobility in the community before and after introduction of the dog was measured using occupational mapping. Families plotted on Google Map printouts the places they frequented before and after placement of their dog. Five major themes emerged from the analysis of the interviews: freedom through restraint; expanding our world; a calming/sensory tool (AAD); "at the end of the day they're dogs"; and, friendship and personal growth. The occupational maps demonstrated a median increase of 8.5 more places and 20.50 km further travelled from home after having the dog for over a year. Families with an AAD experienced an expanded world for the child and their family. Families experienced freedom in the places they could go, decreased isolation due to the safety which the dog provides. Occupational mapping supported the qualitative data, showing increased mobility and decreased isolation of the family. The paradox of freedom through restraint is a new and key finding which requires further exploration. The results provide support for funding and increased awareness of AAD programmes. Future longitudinal comparative studies are needed to explore the long-term impact of AADs on the child and family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Appleby
- Allied Health and Human PerformanceUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
- Present address:
Novita422 Salisbury HighwayParafield GardensSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Shelley Wright
- Allied Health and Human PerformanceUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Lindy Williams
- Allied Health and Human PerformanceUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Mandy Stanley
- Allied Health and Human PerformanceUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
- Present address:
Occupational TherapySchool of Medical and Health SciencesEdith Cowan UniversityPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
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19
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Bentley G, Zamir O. The Role of Maternal Self-efficacy in the Link Between Childhood Maltreatment and Maternal Stress During Transition to Motherhood. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP19576-NP19598. [PMID: 34498515 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211042871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The transition to motherhood is a significant developmental milestone in many women's lives. This transitional period may be more stressful for women with a history of childhood maltreatment (CM) than for women without such a history. This study tested whether parental self-efficacy (PSE) accounts for the link between CM and parental stress in mothers transitioning to motherhood. The study used a convenience sample of 1,306 first-time mothers of children aged two years or younger. Mothers filled out online self-report questionnaires assessing history of CM, PSE, and prenatal stress. Consistent with the hypotheses, exposure to CM was directly associated with greater parental stress. Also, PSE partially mediated the associations between CM and parental stress, such that mothers with a history of childhood abuse reported a lower level of PSE, which in turn was associated with greater parental stress. In conclusion, the study highlights the important role of negative cognitions related to parenting for maternal dysfunction following exposure to childhood abuse. These findings suggest a need to incorporate preventive interventions designed to promote PSE for mothers exposed to CM. Such programs may alleviate parental stress and further support the healthy development of the child.
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20
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Hong VTP, An NH, Thao TTP, Thao LN, Thanh NM. Behavior problems reduce academic outcomes among primary students: A moderated mediation of parental burnout and parents' self-compassion. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2022; 2022:27-42. [PMID: 36070880 DOI: 10.1002/cad.20482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The present study examines the mediating role of parental burnout in the relationship between students' behavior problems and academic outcomes and whether this mediating process is moderated by parents' self-compassion (PSC). This study was designed according to a cross-sectional study model, and includes 821 Vietnamese primary students (Mage = 9.98, SD = 0.889) completing behavior problems questionnaires. The parents completed parental burnout and the PSC questionnaires. The school office reported academic outcomes. Main findings include: (1) Student's behavior problems have a direct negative influence on academic outcomes; (2) the mediating role of parental burnout was significant; (3) the moderating role of PSC was also significant. This study suggests that students' behavior problems increase parental burnout, reducing academic outcomes. Next, higher self-compassion protected parents from the negative effect of children's behavior problems. The results of this study are meaningful for developing interventions, which help improve parents' mental health and children's positive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vo T P Hong
- Department of Psychology, Hoa Sen University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Hong An
- Department of Psychology, Hoa Sen University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tran T P Thao
- Department of Psychology, Hoa Sen University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Le N Thao
- Department of Psychology, Hoa Sen University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Minh Thanh
- Department of Psychology, Hoa Sen University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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21
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Sipowicz K, Podlecka M, Mokros Ł, Pietras T, Łuczyńska K. Being an adult sibling of an individual with autism spectrum disorder may be a predictor of loneliness and depression – Preliminary findings from a cross-sectional study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:915915. [PMID: 35992385 PMCID: PMC9389292 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.915915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study is to compare depression and loneliness among adult siblings of people on the autism spectrum, adult siblings of normotypic individuals, and adults raised alone (only child). In recent years, an increasing interest in the perspective of siblings of children diagnosed with autism has been observed, with studies among this population particularly concerned with the developmental trajectories of children and adolescents at “high risk” for ASD, rarely focusing on their mental well-being. Methods The respondents filled out: the survey on sociodemographic data designed by the authors, Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI, measure of depression), and De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (DJGLS, assessment of loneliness). Results A rise in BDI and an increase in the DJGLS score were predicted by having a sibling diagnosed with ASD. Those effects were independent of subjects’ sex, educational status, place of residence, or a number of siblings. Conclusion The results underline a fundamental need for the development of mental hygiene programs for families where children with autism spectrum are accompanied by healthy siblings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Sipowicz
- Department of Interdisciplinary Disability Studies, The Maria Grzegorzewska University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marlena Podlecka
- Department of Neuroses, Personality Disorders and Eating Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Łukasz Mokros
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Pietras
- Second Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamila Łuczyńska
- Department of Experimental Embryology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, Poland
- *Correspondence: Kamila Łuczyńska,
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22
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He B, Wongpakaran T, Wongpakaran N, Wedding D. Marital Satisfaction and Perceived Family Support in Families of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Dyadic Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:1227. [PMID: 35885754 PMCID: PMC9322168 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10071227] [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: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Raising children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) causes tremendous stress for parents that may lead to marital conflict and relationship dissatisfaction. Many factors are associated with parent relationships including severity of autistic behaviors and social support. This study aimed to investigate whether severity of autistic behaviors, perceived family support, and complementarity of interpersonal styles between husbands and wives predicted couple satisfaction among the parents of children with ASD. METHOD Seven hundred ninety-seven parent dyads of children aged 7-14 years old with ASD participated in the study. Measurements used included couple satisfaction index, perceived family support using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, inter-personal style using the inventory of interpersonal problems, the ABC autism checklists as well as sociodemographic and related factors. The Actor Partner Interdependence Model estimated by multilevel modeling was used for analysis. RESULTS Perceived family support was relevant in married couples regarding their marital relationship, but the effects on husbands and wives differed. Husbands' relationship satisfaction was predicted by how they perceived being supported by family. The severity of autistic behaviors predicted relationship satisfaction but only actor effect. Negative prediction of interpersonal complementarity on couple satisfaction was observed. In addition, time spent on raising children had a negative impact on the quality of the relationship. Partner effect of time spent was observed among women. CONCLUSION Dyadic analysis using an actor-partner independence model confirmed perception of family support predicts relationship satisfaction among parents of children with ASD in addition to the severity of autistic behaviors and time spent caring for children. Complementarity of individual interpersonal style had no effect on couple satisfaction. This research suggests implications for interventions regarding building skills that elicit support from family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijing He
- Graduate School, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.H.); (N.W.); (D.W.)
| | - Tinakon Wongpakaran
- Graduate School, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.H.); (N.W.); (D.W.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Nahathai Wongpakaran
- Graduate School, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.H.); (N.W.); (D.W.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Danny Wedding
- Graduate School, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.H.); (N.W.); (D.W.)
- Department of Clinical and Humanistic Psychology, Saybrook University, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Missouri-Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO 63121, USA
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23
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Richardson K, Mackenzie L, Lovarini M, Dickson C. Occupational therapy incorporating dogs for autistic children and young people: Parent perspectives. Br J Occup Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/03080226221086217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Dogs may elicit positive therapy outcomes for children/adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, little is known about the parent perspectives of the use of dogs as part of an occupational therapy program for ASD. This study aimed to explore parent perspectives about the Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) component of the occupational therapy intervention their child/adolescent received across five weekly sessions. Method Using a phenomenological approach, 16 semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents (13 mothers and four fathers) following an AAT occupational therapy program. Thematic analysis was conducted. Results Three themes were identified relating to the value parents attributed to the AAT occupational therapy program with dogs for their child/adolescent: 1. Stress and anxiety management; 2. Participation and engagement and 3. Social communication. Positive outcomes identified by parents included the dogs being a calming influence and facilitating the participation of their child/adolescent in life-skill activities. Conclusion Parents valued AAT occupational therapy involving dogs. Future studies should investigate how to best target this occupational therapy approach for autistic children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Richardson
- The University of Sydney, Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lynette Mackenzie
- The University of Sydney, Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Meryl Lovarini
- The University of Sydney, Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire Dickson
- Occupational Therapist, Assistance Dogs Australia, Engadine, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Emotional and behavioral problems in Japanese preschool children with motor coordination difficulties: the role of autistic traits. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 31:979-990. [PMID: 33566188 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-021-01732-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
There has been little research on whether younger children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) symptoms have an increased risk for emotional and behavioral problems. This study examined whether coordination difficulties are associated with emotional and behavioral problems (emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity/inattention, peer problems, reduced prosocial behavior) in preschool children and the role of autistic traits in this association. Data (N = 1042, age 58-71 months) were analyzed from the Tama Children's Survey (TCS). The Little Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (LDCDQ) was used to measure coordination difficulty symptoms. Information was obtained on emotional/behavioral problems using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and on autistic traits with the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Higher autistic traits were based on SRS cutoff scores (53.5 for boys and 52.5 for girls). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess associations between the variables. In adjusted models, children with probable DCD (pDCD) were significantly more likely to score above the clinical thresholds on all SDQ emotional/behavioral domains. However, nearly all of these associations became nonsignificant after including autistic traits in the analysis. Additional analyses showed that children with pDCD with higher autistic traits had significantly increased odds for emotional problems (odds ratio [OR]: 4.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.52-13.19), hyperactivity/inattention (OR: 3.74, 95% CI: 1.45-9.64), peer problems (OR: 15.81, 95% CI: 5.96-41.99), and total difficulties (OR: 28.78, 95% CI: 7.23-114.57), compared to children with pDCD alone. These results indicate that the increased risk of emotional/behavioral difficulties in preschool children with pDCD might be mediated by autistic traits.
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25
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Yu X, Rahman MM, Wang Z, Carter SA, Schwartz J, Chen Z, Eckel SP, Hackman D, Chen JC, Xiang AH, McConnell R. Evidence of susceptibility to autism risks associated with early life ambient air pollution: A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 208:112590. [PMID: 34929192 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many studies have found associations between early life air pollution exposure and subsequent onset of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, characteristics that affect susceptibility remain unclear. OBJECTIVE This systematic review examined epidemiologic studies on the modifying roles of social, child, genetic and maternal characteristics in associations between prenatal and early postnatal air pollution exposure and ASD. METHODS A systematic literature search in PubMed and Embase was conducted. Studies that examined modifiers of the association between air pollution and ASD were included. RESULTS A total of 19 publications examined modifiers of the associations between early life air pollution exposures and ASD. In general, estimates of effects on risk of ASD in boys were larger than in girls (based on 11 studies). Results from studies of effects of family education (2 studies) and neighborhood deprivation (2 studies) on air pollution-ASD associations were inconsistent. Limited data (1 study) suggest pregnant women with insufficient folic acid intake might be more susceptible to ambient particulate matter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and 10 μm (PM10) in aerodynamic diameter, and to nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Children of mothers with gestational diabetes had increased risk of ozone-associated ASD (1 study). Two genetic studies reported that copy number variations may amplify the effect of ozone, and MET rs1858830 CC genotype may augment effects of PM and near-roadway pollutants on ASD. CONCLUSIONS Child's sex, maternal nutrition or diabetes, socioeconomic factors, and child risk genotypes were reported to modify the effect of early-life air pollutants on ASD risk in the epidemiologic literature. However, the sparsity of studies on comparable modifying hypotheses precludes conclusive findings. Further research is needed to identify susceptible populations and potential targets for preventive intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yu
- Spatial Science Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Md Mostafijur Rahman
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zhongying Wang
- Spatial Science Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sarah A Carter
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Joel Schwartz
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhanghua Chen
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sandrah P Eckel
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Hackman
- USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jiu-Chiuan Chen
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anny H Xiang
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Rob McConnell
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Strauss K, Servadio M, Valeri G, Casula L, Vicari S, Fava L. Association between child behavioural problems and parenting stress in autism spectrum disorders: the role of parenting self-efficacy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 70:49-58. [PMID: 38456133 PMCID: PMC10916921 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2022.2052417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Introduction: The present study build on previous research that found a bidirectional relation of parenting stress and negative behavioural outcomes in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Aim: To investigate the mediating role of parenting self-efficacy in the relationship of parenting stress and children's behavioural and emotional problems. Materials and methods: The sample included 32 young children and their families. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed direct and indirect mediating effects. Results: Parenting self-efficacy mediated the relationship between parenting stress and children's behavioural and emotional problems in fathers only. Conclusions: We discuss potential ways targeted parenting self-efficacy intervention can support fathers. Results contribute to gain father-informed knowledge in, a research branch generally focused on mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Strauss
- Association for Treatment and Research in Autism and Related Conditions “Umbrella”, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Servadio
- Association for Treatment and Research in Autism and Related Conditions “Umbrella”, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Valeri
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, I.R.C.C.S. Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Casula
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, I.R.C.C.S. Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, I.R.C.C.S. Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Fava
- Association for Treatment and Research in Autism and Related Conditions “Umbrella”, Rome, Italy
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Factor RS, Rea HM, Dahiya AV, Albright J, Ollendick TH, Laugeson EA, Scarpa A. An Initial Pilot Study Examining Child Social Skills, Caregiver Styles, and Family Functioning in the PEERS® for Preschoolers Program for Young Autistic Children and their Caregivers. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 121:104152. [PMID: 34942441 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.104152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social impairments characteristic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are evident in early childhood and worsen as the child matures. Though many interventions for young children exist, few specifically target social skills and involve caregivers. AIMS This pilot study examined PEERS® for Preschoolers, focusing on temporal change in child social skills, caregiver style, and family functioning in the context of a caregiver-assisted social skills intervention. This extension of the PEERS® program builds on the success of the intervention for older children, presenting skills in a developmentally appropriate manner to young autistic children and their caregivers. METHODS AND PROCEDURES The present pilot study used a non-concurrent multiple baseline design to examine the above variables with 15 autistic children (Mage = 4.87, SD = 1.25; 11 boys). Children and caregivers participated in PEERS® for Preschoolers groups, with each group randomly assigned three different baseline periods (1.5, 2, or 2.5 weeks) before beginning. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Simulation Modeling Analysis (SMA) revealed concurrent improvements in social and caregiving skills, with subsequent changes in family functioning occurring over the course of this 16-session intervention. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Future research will need to examine mechanisms of change in PEERS® for Preschoolers for children and caregivers. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS There is a dearth of research that specifically examines social skills interventions for young autistic children that incorporates caregivers and examines family functioning as well. This paper is one of the first to evaluate the PEERS® for Preschoolers (P4P) intervention by: 1) exploring changes in child social skills, caregiver efficacy, and family functioning, and 2) analyzing the sequence of improvements in the aforementioned variables to measure systematic change. This pilot study presents results using appropriate methodology for a small sample size of children and caregivers. Results suggested concurrent improvements in social and caregiving skills and subsequent changes in family functioning. These can be built upon for further research on the PEERS® for Preschoolers intervention. This study supports PEERS® for Preschoolers as a feasible intervention that likely contributes to improvements for the child, caregiver in their relationship with their child and parenting styles in general, as well as functioning of the entire family. In sum, this work is essential to furthering the provision of a much needed service of social skills interventions for young autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reina S Factor
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, 109 Williams Hall, 890 Drillfield, Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, 300 Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States.
| | - Hannah M Rea
- Research in Autism and the Brain Lab, University of Washington, CHDD Box 357920, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Angela V Dahiya
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, 109 Williams Hall, 890 Drillfield, Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Jordan Albright
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, 109 Williams Hall, 890 Drillfield, Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Thomas H Ollendick
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, 109 Williams Hall, 890 Drillfield, Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Laugeson
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, 300 Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Angela Scarpa
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, 109 Williams Hall, 890 Drillfield, Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
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28
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Efstratopoulou M, Sofologi M, Giannoglou S, Bonti E. Parental Stress and Children’s Self-Regulation Problems in Families with Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). J Intell 2022; 10:jintelligence10010004. [PMID: 35076548 PMCID: PMC8788508 DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence10010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Increased parental stress is strongly related to the severity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptomatology. Parents’ coping strategies and social support issues add to the complexity of this relationship. Aim: The present study investigated the relationship between self-regulation skills and parenting stress in parents of nonverbal children with ASD. Methods and procedure: The Parenting Stress Index–Short Form (PSI-SF) was administered to 75 families, and self-regulation scores on a Motor Behavior Checklist for children (MBC) were recorded by students’ class teachers (level of functioning-behavioral problems). In addition, interviews were conducted with a focus group of six parents (four mothers and two fathers) to explore the underline factors of parental stressin-depth. Results: Correlation analyses revealed that parenting stress was positively correlated with elevated scores on MBC children’s self-regulation subscale. On the other hand, parenting stress was negatively correlated with the level of social functional support reported. Qualitative data were analyzed using transcripts, revealing additional stressors for families and parents, and resulting in recommendations to overcome these factors. Conclusions and implications: Aiming at developing strategies to improve self-regulation skills in nonverbal children with ASD may be particularly important in reducing parental stress for families having nonverbal children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Parents’ stressors and suggestions during interviews are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Efstratopoulou
- Department of Special Education (CEDU), United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Maria Sofologi
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, 45100 Ioannina, Greece;
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Sofia Giannoglou
- First Psychiatric Clinic, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloni-ki, “Papageorgiou” General Hospital, Ring Road Thessaloniki, N. Efkarpia, 54603 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Eleni Bonti
- First Psychiatric Clinic, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloni-ki, “Papageorgiou” General Hospital, Ring Road Thessaloniki, N. Efkarpia, 54603 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Department of Education, School of Education, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 2417, Cyprus
- Correspondence:
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Dijkstra-de Neijs L, Tisseur C, Kluwen LA, van Berckelaer-Onnes IA, Swaab H, Ester WA. Effectivity of Play-Based Interventions in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Parents: A Systematic Review. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 53:1588-1617. [PMID: 34853960 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05357-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Evidence of the effectivity of play-based interventions in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was evaluated by PRISMA-based literature study and a Risk of Bias (RoB) assessment. Many of the 32 eligible randomized controlled trials (RCT) reported improved social interaction, communication, daily functioning and play behaviour. They also reported decreased problem behaviour, better parental attunement and parent-child interaction. We assessed 25/32 of the RCTs with high RoB, mainly related to homogeneity of the study population, lack of power, and performance bias. We concluded with due care that the effectivity of play-based interventions differed across RCTs, most reported improvements are found in ASD symptoms, everyday functioning, and parental attunement. In future research, findings should be replicated, taking account of the RoB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Dijkstra-de Neijs
- Sarr Expert Centre for Autism, Youz Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Parnassia Group, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Clinical Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Chanel Tisseur
- Sarr Expert Centre for Autism, Youz Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Parnassia Group, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura A Kluwen
- Sarr Expert Centre for Autism, Youz Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Parnassia Group, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ina A van Berckelaer-Onnes
- Sarr Expert Centre for Autism, Youz Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Parnassia Group, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Clinical Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hanna Swaab
- Sarr Expert Centre for Autism, Youz Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Parnassia Group, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Clinical Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Wietske A Ester
- Sarr Expert Centre for Autism, Youz Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Parnassia Group, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. .,Clinical Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands. .,Curium-LUMC, Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Oegstgeest, The Netherlands.
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30
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Schmeer A, Harris VW, Forthun L, Valcante G, Visconti B. Through the eyes of a child: Sibling perspectives on having a sibling diagnosed with autism. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 119:104066. [PMID: 34673468 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.104066] [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: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sibling perspectives on the experiences of families caring for an autistic child are often overlooked in autism research. While qualitative research on these lived experiences has grown, it continues to primarily focus on parent reports. AIMS This study explored how having a sibling with autism impacts the non-autistic siblings within a family systems framework. The goal of the current study was to expand the literature by exploring the impacts of autism on the sibling subsystem as reported by the parents and the non-autistic siblings themselves. METHODS AND PROCEDURES The researchers interviewed 15 non-autistic siblings (aged 7-17) and 15 parents of children with autism to understand the experience of growing up with a sibling with autism. Content analysis was used to develop the interview protocol and analyze responses. Parent and non-autistic sibling reports of both siblings' effects on each other's development are triangulated with existing research. RESULTS Findings indicate novel emotional skill-building occurs in non-autistic siblings, as well as some unique risk factors for internalizing and externalizing problems if non-autistic siblings' needs become deprioritized. Family stress, external relationships, intrapersonal and social skill development, and other implications of this unique relationship are discussed.
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31
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Koukouriki E, Athanasopoulou E, Andreoulakis E. Feelings of Loneliness and Social Dissatisfaction in Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Role of Birth Order and Perceived Social Support. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:4722-4738. [PMID: 34741232 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05308-x] [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] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Loneliness has been associated with several adverse psychosocial outcomes in childhood and adolescence. The present study aimed to investigate feelings of loneliness and social dissatisfaction in school-aged typically-developing (TD) siblings of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). For this purpose, 118 siblings of children with ASD and 115 siblings of TD children and one of their parents participated in this study. Siblings of ASD-children reported higher levels of loneliness and social dissatisfaction than the controls. The hierarchical multiple regressions performed revealed that those feelings were inversely associated with being the first-born and with specific aspects of social support as perceived by the parent. The younger siblings of ASD-children seem to be in need of certain interventions beyond social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Koukouriki
- Special Education Laboratory, Department of Primary Education, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece. .,Centre for Educational and Counseling Services of Trikala, 2 Botsari str, 42132, Trikala, Greece.
| | - Evangelini Athanasopoulou
- Community Centre for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, General Hospital of Thessaloniki "G. Papanikolaou", 57010, Thessaloníki, Greece
| | - Elias Andreoulakis
- Adult Psychiatric Unit, Department of Thessaloniki, Hellenic Centre for Mental Health and Research, Thessaloníki, Greece
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32
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Kalb LG, Holingue C, Pfeiffer D, Reetzke R, Dillon E, Azad G, Freedman B, Landa R. Parental relationship status and age at autism spectrum disorder diagnosis of their child. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 25:2189-2198. [PMID: 34010065 PMCID: PMC8446293 DOI: 10.1177/13623613211013683] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be diagnosed as early as 18 months of age. However, the average age at diagnosis in the United States is over 2 years later. A lot has been written about the many barriers families face when seeking a diagnosis for their child. One area of research that has received no attention is whether separation between a child's biological parents affects the age at which a child is diagnosed with ASD. This study was conducted among 561 children who were receiving an ASD diagnosis for the first time. On average, these children were 5 years of age. The study took place in an urban, outpatient specialty autism clinic in the United States. Biological parents self-reported their relationship status during the evaluation. This was categorized as either "together" (married or living together but not married) or "not together" (separated, divorced, or never married). At the time of diagnosis, most children's biological parents were together (69%). We found children of parents who were together were diagnosed 1.4 years earlier than those who were not together. These findings have important implications for providing support to families that separate early in a child's life, with the goal of reducing the age at ASD evaluation among single parents and those who have been separated from their child's other biological parent. Providing support to these families is important since earlier age at diagnosis leads to earlier intervention, which can improve long-term outcomes for the child, family, and community as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luther G Kalb
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | - Calliope Holingue
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | - Danika Pfeiffer
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Rachel Reetzke
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Gazi Azad
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, USA
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, USA
- New York Presbyterian Hospital, USA
| | - Brian Freedman
- University of Delaware Center for Disabilities Studies, USA
| | - Rebecca Landa
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA
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33
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Park JE. Effectiveness of creative arts-based parent training for parents with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. ARTS IN PSYCHOTHERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aip.2021.101837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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34
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Al-Oran HM, Khuan L. Predictors of parenting stress in parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder: a scoping review. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-021-00345-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Identifying the predictors of parenting stress in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder is crucial to provide the best health-care services.
Main text
The scoping review was conducted. Search engines (EBSCO, Springer, PubMed, Ovid, Google Scholar, and Science Direct) were used to collate published studies between the years 2009 and 2020. Keywords used were parenting stress, parental stress, predictors of parenting stress, Autism disorder, Autism, and scoping review. Primary screening of the titles and abstracts of 1039 articles was conducted. The secondary screening of 348 articles resulted in 27 articles included in this review. The reviewed articles revealed core symptoms of the disorder, namely, behavior problems, and socio-communication impairments strongly linked with the high level of parenting stress.
Conclusion
This scoping review is the initial step toward encouraging future efforts to provide supportive interventions for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder.
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Ahadullah, Yau SY, Lu HX, Lee TMC, Guo H, Chan CCH. PM 2.5 as a potential risk factor for autism spectrum disorder: Its possible link to neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and changes in gene expression. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 128:534-548. [PMID: 34216652 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by behavioral deficits including impairments in social communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors. Because the etiology of ASD is still largely unknown, there is no cure for ASD thus far. Although it has been established that genetic components play a vital role in ASD development, the influence of epigenetic regulation induced by environmental factors could also contribute to ASD susceptibility. Accumulated evidence has suggested that exposure to atmospheric particulate matter (PM) in polluted air could affect neurodevelopment, thus possibly leading to ASD. Particles with a size of 2.5 μm (PM2.5) or less have been shown to have negative effects on human health, and could be linked to ASD symptoms in children. This review summarizes evidence from clinical and animal studies to demonstrate the possible linkage between PM2.5 exposure and the incidence of ASD in children. An attempt was made to explore the possible mechanisms of this linkage, including changes of gene expression, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation induced by PM2.5 exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahadullah
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Suk-Yu Yau
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Hao-Xian Lu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tatia M C Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychology and Human Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hai Guo
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Chetwyn C H Chan
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, Hong Kong, China
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36
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Restricted Eating in Preschoolers with Autism: Mother Stressors and Solutions. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:2589-2597. [PMID: 34189684 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05078-6] [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: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Feeding interventions for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) focus solely on the child, not the family milieu. This qualitative study aimed to understand mothers' perspectives on managing restricted eating among preschoolers with ASD. Focus groups were conducted with eleven mothers of preschoolers with ASD. Audio recordings were transcribed, and data analyzed for themes. Mothers experienced stressors balancing priorities of adequate nutrition with family mealtime demands and found solutions in support from other mothers, strategies from a wide array of sources, and resorting to trial and error to improve eating. Healthcare practitioners should explore and consider family stressors, competing demands, and coping skills when recommending mealtime interventions for optimal child and family well-being.
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The Effect of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Improving Psychological Well-Being in Parents of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11070880. [PMID: 34209171 PMCID: PMC8301771 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11070880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has been demonstrated as effective in improving psychological well-being in several clinical domains, but there is no evidence regarding the parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, we evaluated the efficacy of the ACT matrix behavioral protocol in comparison to the Parent Training (PT) program, measuring several primary and secondary outcomes prior to and following treatments. Twelve parents were randomly and equally assigned to two demographically matched groups wherein individuals underwent 24 weekly meetings of ACT protocol (experimental group) or conventional PT (control group). Results: Parents enrolled in the ACT protocol demonstrated significant improvement in psychological flexibility, awareness states, personal values in everyday life, and parental stress, whereas reduced scores were elicited in parents’ perceptions of their child’s disruptive behaviors. Conclusions: The results of this randomized controlled trial, if repeated with a large number of subjects, could open the way to include ACT protocols in daily practice to support the development of new parenting skills.
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Scibelli F, Fucà E, Guerrera S, Lupi E, Alfieri P, Valeri G, Vicari S. Clinical and individual features associated with maternal stress in young adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2021; 14:1935-1947. [PMID: 34013607 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Parents of people with autism spectrum disorder experience both negative stressful and positive events. Several clinical and socio-demographic features of children on the autism spectrum have been associated with parenting stress in their families. However, there have been few studies that focus on adolescents and the role of cognitive impairment has rarely been addressed. The main aim of the present research is to explore associations between autism symptoms, cognitive impairment, emotional and behavioral problems, socio-demographic features, and maternal stress in a sample of young adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder with and without cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment and emotional and behavioral problems are associated with maternal stress, while autism symptoms seem to play a minor role. Maternal education and occupation are only associated with maternal stress in the group with cognitive impairment, while maternal age is stress-associated in the group of adolescents without cognitive impairment. Age-related implications for intervention and future research directions are discussed. LAY SUMMARY: Parents of individuals on the autism spectrum are exposed to both negative stressful and enriching experiences during their parenthood. While the influence of several child characteristics and socio-demographic features on parental stress during childhood has been widely explored in past studies, studies on teenagers are limited. The aim of the present research is to explore the influence of several characteristics on maternal stress levels in families with teenagers on the autism spectrum. We found that cognitive impairment and emotional and behavioral problems are associated with maternal stress, while autism symptoms seem to play a minor role. Socio-demographic features are not associated with maternal stress. Broadly speaking, the subjective perception of parental distress in both groups is less related to teenagers' characteristics then the perception of having a difficult interaction with the teenagers. We divided our participants into two groups (one group with cognitive impairment and the other group without). We found that mothers of teenagers with cognitive impairment are generally more stressed compared to the other group. Furthermore, we confirm that emotional and behavioral problems seem to play a major role in maternal stress (especially in the group without cognitive impairment), while autism symptoms seem to play a minor role. Furthermore, we found that maternal education/occupation and maternal age are associated with maternal stress in the group with and the group without cognitive impairment respectively. This research highlights the association between several variables and stress in mothers of adolescents on the spectrum. Results are discussed in the framework of previous findings highlighting the lack of adequate care and support services for families, especially for those of adolescents on the spectrum with cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Scibelli
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Fucà
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Guerrera
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Lupi
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Alfieri
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Valeri
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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39
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Pandjarjian Mekhitarian AV, Martins Bialer M, Lerner R. Um olhar ético para o sofrimento da família da criança com autismo. PSICOLOGIA EM ESTUDO 2021. [DOI: 10.4025/psicolestud.v26i0.48763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
No presente artigo, temos como objetivo discutir, do ponto de vista da ética, alguns impactos que o autismo pode ter nas relações familiares e, de maneira específica, no irmão mais novo da criança autista. Para tanto, recorremos a uma revisão bibliográfica acerca de possíveis efeitos do autismo nas relações familiares e também à apresentação de recortes autobiográficos de famílias de crianças autistas. Por décadas, a questão da etiologia do autismo foi tema de persistentes estereótipos e perspectivas reducionistas, que frequentemente culpabilizaram a mãe ou cuidadores pelo autismo da criança. Operamos uma torção no sentido de pensarmos sobre como a criança autista, com suas singularidades, pode vir a impactar as relações familiares, refletindo sobre como a subjetividade da criança afeta a família ao mesmo tempo em que é afetada por ela. Dessa forma, esperamos alargar as pesquisas psicanalíticas que enfocam este tema e escapar de uma perspectiva exteriorizada, especialista e culpabilizante.
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Lei X, Kantor J. Social Support and Family Functioning in Chinese Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:3504. [PMID: 33800586 PMCID: PMC8037478 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Families caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have reported poorer family functioning. Social support might strengthen family functioning, but limited research to date has focused on this association in China. This study conducted a cross-sectional survey of Chinese families that have children with ASD to examine the relationship between social support and family functioning. Caregivers of children with ASD from Sichuan province in China (N = 167) were surveyed concerning their perceived social support and family functioning. The Social Support Rating Scale was used to investigate caregivers' perceived social support from three dimensions: subjective support, objective support, and the utilization of support. A Chinese version of the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scale was used to investigate their perceptions of family cohesion and adaptability. The Pearson correlation coefficient and stepwise multiple regression were used for analyses. The results suggested that social support was positively related to family cohesion and adaptability. Of the three sub-domains of social support, both subjective support and the utilization of support were positively associated with family cohesion and adaptability. The study's findings evidenced the importance of different types of social support and could be used to develop a targeted support service for families that have children with ASD to improve their family functioning and sustain the family unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianmei Lei
- Faculty of Special Education, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China;
- Center of Evidence-based Education & Arts Therapies, Faculty of Education, Palacky University, 79900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Kantor
- Center of Evidence-based Education & Arts Therapies, Faculty of Education, Palacky University, 79900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Institute of Special Education Studies, Faculty of Education, Palacky University, 79900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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Khorsandi F, Parizad N, Feizi A, Hemmati MaslakPak M. How do parents deal with their children's chronic kidney disease? A qualitative study for identifying factors related to parent's adaptation. BMC Nephrol 2020; 21:509. [PMID: 33238900 PMCID: PMC7690036 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-020-02170-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Parents’ adaptation affects the health outcomes of children with chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Identifying factors that affect parents’ adaptation is necessary to understand their adaptation status. This study aims to explore factors related to the adaptation of parents who have children with CKD. Methods This was a qualitative study with a content analysis approach. Seventeen parents of children with CKD were selected by using purposive sampling. The leading researcher performed semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews to collect data. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze data. Results Two main categories extracted from the data were “adaptation facilitators” and “adaptation barriers.” Adaptation facilitators were supported by three sub-categories: “social support”, “family capability” and “spiritual beliefs”. Four sub-categories of “adaptation barriers” were revealed as: “family-related barriers,” “mental stress by others,” “the chronic nature of the disease,” and “unfavorable treatment conditions.” Conclusions Identifying the factors influencing parental adaptation helps the medical staff to make the necessary interventions to support the parents. According to this study, increasing parent access to the required information, supporting them financially and emotionally, and helping them identify support resources can facilitate their adaptation to their child’s chronic illness. Also, identifying and eliminating adaptation barriers can help parents deal better with their child’s chronic disease. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12882-020-02170-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Khorsandi
- Department of Medical - Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, IR, Iran
| | - Naser Parizad
- Patient Safety Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Science, Urmia, IR, Iran
| | - Aram Feizi
- Department of Management, Psychology, Community, and Fundamental nursing, Urmia, IR, Iran
| | - Masumeh Hemmati MaslakPak
- Center for Mother and Child Obesity Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, IR, Iran. .,Nursing and Midwifery Faculty, Campus Nazlu, 11 KM Road Seru, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, 575611-5111, Iran.
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LeBlanc LA, Lazo-Pearson JF, Pollard JS, Unumb LS. The Role of Compassion and Ethics in Decision Making Regarding Access to Applied Behavior Analysis Services During the COVID-19 Crisis: A Response to Cox, Plavnick, and Brodhead. Behav Anal Pract 2020; 13:604-608. [PMID: 32837697 PMCID: PMC7296895 DOI: 10.1007/s40617-020-00446-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cox, Plavnick, and Brodhead (2020, "A Proposed Process for Risk Mitigation During the COVID-19 Pandemic") published a position statement in the emergency section of Behavior Analysis in Practice in response to the COVID-19 crisis. They argued against a blanket interpretation that in-person applied behavior analysis services for all patients should continue during the pandemic. They strongly argued that the risks of continued services are almost always prohibitive and that only in rare cases would the continuation of in-person services be warranted. Colombo, Wallace, and Taylor (2020, "An Essential Service Decisions Model for Applied Behavior Analytic Providers During Crisis") soon thereafter published a response to the article pointing out the potential dangers associated with the position of the article by Cox et al. They included a detailed decision model to assist providers in making nuanced and informed data-based decisions that provide the opportunity to honor the ethical responsibility for not abandoning patients. We echo the importance of the Colombo et al. response and add points of response centered on balanced ethical decision making informed by compassionate family-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joy S. Pollard
- Behavior Change Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Lorri S. Unumb
- The Council of Autism Service Providers, Wakefield, MA USA
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Lei X, Kantor J. Social support and family quality of life in Chinese families of children with autism spectrum disorder: the mediating role of family cohesion and adaptability. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 68:454-461. [PMID: 35937173 PMCID: PMC9351563 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2020.1803706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study examined the interrelations among social support, family quality of life (FQOL), and family cohesion and adaptability in Chinese families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS A sample of 163 caregivers of children with ASD in China were surveyed with the Social Support Rating Scale, Beach Center Family Quality of Life Scale, and Chinese version of Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scale II, respectively. We used structural equation modeling to examine the mediating role of family cohesion and adaptability on the relationship between social support and FQOL. RESULTS The results indicated that social support had a positive impact on FQOL and that family cohesion and adaptability completely mediated the relationship between social support and caregivers' satisfaction on FQOL. CONCLUSIONS Facilitating family cohesion and adaptability by providing social support may be beneficial to help families of children with ASD improve their FQOL. The findings identified the need for developing targeted interventions for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianmei Lei
- College of Special Education, Leshan Normal University, Leshan City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiří Kantor
- Institute of Special Educational Studies, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
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Parent Stress as a Consideration in Childhood Obesity Prevention: Results from the Guelph Family Health Study, a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12061835. [PMID: 32575660 PMCID: PMC7353266 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Parents’ stress is independently associated with increased child adiposity, but parents’ stress may also interfere with childhood obesity prevention programs. The disruptions to the family dynamic caused by participating in a behaviour change intervention may exacerbate parent stress and undermine overall intervention efficacy. This study explored how family stress levels were impacted by participation in a home-based obesity prevention intervention. Data were collected from 77 families (56 fathers, 77 mothers) participating in the Guelph Family Health Study (GFHS), a pilot randomized control trial of a home-based obesity prevention intervention. Four measures of stress were investigated: general life stress, parenting distress, depressive symptoms, and household chaos. Multiple linear regression was used to compare the level of stress between the intervention and control groups at post-intervention and 1-year follow-up, adjusted for baseline stress. Analyses for mothers and fathers were stratified, except for household chaos which was measured at the family level. Results indicate no significant differences between intervention and control groups for any stress measure at any time point, indicating a neutral effect of the GFHS intervention on family stress. Future work should investigate the components of family-based intervention protocols that make participation minimally burdensome and consider embedding specific stress-reduction messaging to promote family health and wellbeing.
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Selvakumar N, Panicker AS. Stress and Coping Styles in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Indian J Psychol Med 2020; 42:225-232. [PMID: 32612326 PMCID: PMC7320725 DOI: 10.4103/ijpsym.ijpsym_333_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require well-balanced care and a comprehensive therapeutic approach. Mental health problems often go unnoticed in mothers of children with ASD due to the focus on training for the children. The presence of stress and depressive symptoms in mothers can interfere with the quality of care and therapy given to the child. The present study aimed to assess the quality of life, coping styles, and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in mothers of children with ASD. METHODS This study recruited thirty mothers of children with ASD, to whom Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS 21), WHO Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF), and COPE Inventory were administered. RESULTS Results indicated the presence of depressive and anxiety symptoms and impaired quality of life among the mothers. Despite this, they exhibited positive coping styles. CONCLUSION As part of a comprehensive intervention for children with ASD, there is also a need to address the psychological distress and coping styles of mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivedhitha Selvakumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry, India
| | - Anuja S Panicker
- Department of Psychiatry, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (PSGIMSR), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Relational Uncertainty and Taking Conflict Personally: Comparing Parents of Children with and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:4401-4411. [PMID: 32297125 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04492-6] [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: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Previous research suggests that parents of children with ASD experience greater marital conflict than parents of children with neurotypical development (NTD). This study examines how relational uncertainty is associated with taking conflict personally among parents of children with or without ASD. Parents of children with ASD (N = 298) and parents of children with NTD (N = 316) completed an online survey. They reported their relational uncertainty, recalled a conflict related to their child, and completed measures of taking conflict personally. The study provides evidence that spouses' experiences of relational uncertainty may be associated with conflict about topics related to their child. In addition, experiences of self uncertainty may have a greater impact for the parents of children with ASD than parents of children with NTD.
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Shepherd D, Landon J, Goedeke S, Meads J. The Cold Shoulder or a Shoulder to Cry on? Mechanisms of Formal and Informal Social Support in the ASD Parenting Context. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:4331-4343. [PMID: 32266681 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04487-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The underlying mechanisms by which social support exerts its (typically) positive effects on parental wellbeing are still being investigated in the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) context. Parents (n = 674) of a child with ASD responded to questions probing parenting stress, parent psychological health, their child's ASD symptoms, and the types of social supports they were currently utilising. Hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses examined whether social support moderated or mediated (or neither) the relationships between: (a) parent-rated child ASD symptoms and parenting stress, and (b) parenting stress and parent psychological health. The main findings were that none of the mediating models reached statistical significance, while 7/20 moderation analyses were significant, though significance was dependent upon how social support was operationalised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Shepherd
- Department of Psychology, Auckland University of Technology, Private Bag 92006, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Jason Landon
- Department of Psychology, Auckland University of Technology, Private Bag 92006, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Sonja Goedeke
- Department of Psychology, Auckland University of Technology, Private Bag 92006, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jake Meads
- Department of Psychology, Auckland University of Technology, Private Bag 92006, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
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Functioning Among Typically Developing Siblings of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2020; 22:172-196. [PMID: 30178117 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-018-0269-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The literature on typically developing siblings of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD-Sibs) provides inconsistent results, with some studies reporting ASD-Sibs are more likely to have negative outcomes than comparison groups, and others reporting no significant differences. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to meta-analytically aggregate study effect sizes to more accurately calculate the degree to which ASD-Sibs function similarly or differently compared to siblings of people who do not have ASD. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they had a sample of ASD-Sibs older than 5; reported on emotional, psychological, behavioral, or social functioning; and provided information necessary for calculating relevant effect sizes. Results from 69 independent samples indicated that ASD-Sibs have significantly more negative outcomes than comparison groups overall (g = - 0.26); specific areas of functioning in which ASD-Sibs fared worse include internalizing behavior problems, psychological functioning, beliefs, social functioning, and the sibling relationship, but no significant differences in adjustment, attention/hyperactivity, externalizing behavior problems, coping, or family functioning. Noteworthy sub-areas of functioning in which ASD-Sibs also fared worse included beliefs about disability (g = - 0.56), anxiety symptoms (g = - 0.25), and depression symptoms (g = - 0.36). In terms of comparison group, ASD-Sibs had significantly lower functioning than siblings of individuals with other intellectual and developmental disabilities (g = - 0.31), including Down syndrome (g = - 0.40) and siblings of individuals without any disabilities (g = - 0.31). Clinicians and service providers should work to ensure that ASD-Sibs are included in family interventions and support strategies, and researchers should further explore individual differences that may relate to enhanced or impaired functioning in ASD-Sibs.
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Furrukh J, Anjum G. Coping with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Pakistan: A phenomenology of mothers who have children with ASD. COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2020.1728108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Juveriah Furrukh
- Department of Social Sciences & Liberal Arts (SSLA), Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Gulnaz Anjum
- Department of Social Sciences & Liberal Arts (SSLA), Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi, Pakistan
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Decroocq C, Soulas T, Lichtlé J, Sankey C, Engelberg A, Cappe E. Facilitators' perspectives on a psychoeducational program for parents of an autistic child. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 24:1273-1285. [PMID: 31969009 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319899766] [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] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT The recent increase of diagnosed cases of autism spectrum disorders has led to a considerable rise in the demands for autism-related services and interventions. Caring for an autistic child can be perceived as an enrichment, which coexists with stress in parents. Parents express the need to access relevant information about their child's difference, and parent support interventions appear to respond effectively to this demand, as they are knowledge-focused and offer indirect support to the child. The aim of this study was to capture the subjective experience of facilitators who implemented a psychoeducational program called Beyond PDD: Parental Skills within My Reach. This program is based on the acknowledged fact that parents of autistic children play a central role in their child's development. Its main goal is to help parents of autistic children under the age of 8 to identify, develop, and update their parenting competences. This program broaches different topics: (1) specific features of an autistic child, (2) post-diagnostic parental adjustment, (3) communication and social relationships, (4) importance of providing the child with a structured environment, and (5) parental emotions and perceptions that impact everyday life. Structured interviews of the facilitators provided insight on institutional support, issues related to the program itself, required and/or recommended professional background, personal experience and competences, and difficulties linked to recruitment and research criteria. Recommendations aiming to enhance program implementation and delivery were then created using facilitators' feedback on these aspects.
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