The impact of having a child with autism on the family : parents’ perspective

Abstract

When autism is present it does not only impact the child’s life, but also the child’s family members and several domains of the family life, such as the parents’ marital relationship and the relationship of parents with their neurotypical children. This study attempted to answer the research question “In what ways is family life affected by having a child with autism?” Indeed, this study explored the aspects that may be affected by this condition along with the several challenges that may be faced by parents, the stressful issues that may result when having a child on the spectrum and the coping strategies that are used by parents. Moreover, this research aimed to explore the parents’ perception of society’s awareness of autism since this may have an impact on family life. In order to carry out this study, I conducted five semi-structured interviews with parents of individuals with autism and who are between seven and twelve years of age. From the thorough analysis of data, it can be stated that most family life domains are impacted by the diagnosis of autism and in order to cope with the demands and needs that autism brings with it, parents adopt, change, or re-consider their coping strategies. The findings show that on a family level parents seek help from each other and from outside sources because they would be unable to deal with the stress individually. It was found that on a societal level, people are aware of what autism is, but do not have the knowledge of how best to relate to a person on the spectrum and how to integrate him or her into society. Following recommendations for schools, social workers, and organisations I believe that society will move a step forward into making life easier for the individual with autism and his or her family.