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Updated: May 22, 2026
08:42
A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
Coping with autism: a journey toward adaptation.
Heidi R Lutz1, Barbara J Patterson, Jean Klein
1Messiah College, One College Avenue, Grantham, PA, USA. HLutz@messiah.edu
Journal of Pediatric Nursing
|April 25, 2012
Summary
Autism significantly impacts family dynamics across the lifespan. Mothers
Area of Science:
- Family Studies
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
- Nursing Practice
Background:
- The increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its impact on families.
- Nurses across various healthcare settings frequently encounter individuals with ASD and their families.
- Understanding family experiences is crucial for providing effective, holistic care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of families impacted by autism.
- To understand how autism influences the family unit from the' mother's perspective.
- To identify the effects of autism on families throughout different life cycle stages.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive narrative study design.
- Qualitative approach utilizing constructivist principles.
- In-depth personal interviews with 16 mothers of individuals with autism.
Main Results:
- Mothers' perceptions revealed significant impacts of autism on family functioning.
- Experiences varied across different life cycle stages of the child with autism.
- Key themes emerged regarding the challenges and adaptations families undertake.
Conclusions:
- Nurses require knowledge of autism's family impact to provide informed care.
- Support for families should be tailored to their specific life cycle stage.
- Pediatric nurses in acute care, community, and school settings play a vital role in supporting these families.
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