Preliminary communication
https://doi.org/10.3935/rsp.v31i1.23
Challenges in Caring for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Stela Čusak
; Department of Social Work, Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Marijo Vrdoljak
; Dom za odrasle, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Zdravka Leutar
; Department of Social Work, Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
With the increasing prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the general population, the number of parents of children with ASD is also on the rise. Parents face numerous challenges in providing care for their children while trying to meet their needs. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the perspective of parents of children with autism regarding the challenges they encounter. Qualitative research was conducted with a sample of 8 participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Research results show that parents encounter difficulties related to the child's undesirable behaviors: in adjusting to new parenting demands, coping with parental stress, advocating for the child's rights, dealing with the inadequacies of the educational system, and adapting to changes in family life dynamics. Parents receive support from professionals and informal support from close individuals, but they also emphasize the lack of support. Participants' recommendations for improvement in parenting children with autism spectrum disorders focus on parental engagement, enhancement of rights and social services, timely intervention, as well as interventions in the educational system. Analysis of the results and literature indicates that the challenges of parenting children with ASD are specific compared to other children with developmental disabilities, and certainly parenting in general. This research is the starting point for further research that will deal with comprehensive social support and the needs of family members who have a member with ASD.
Keywords
parenting; children with autism spectrum disorder; formal and informal support
Hrčak ID:
320607
URI
Publication date:
1.8.2024.
Visits: 366 *