Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 5, 2025

A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
Short report: Social support access among single caregivers with children on the autism spectrum
E Virginia Sticinski1, Steven Eidelman1, Allison Karpyn1
1Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA.
Background:
Caregivers of children with autism are more likely to experience parenting stress than parents of neurotypical children. Research on parenting stress focuses on partnered caregivers and little is known about the comparative social support experienced by single caregivers.
Aim:
To explore differences in perceived social support between single versus partnered caregivers of adolescent and adult children on the autism spectrum.
Methods And Procedures:
A cross-sectional, quantitative study using the ENRICHD Social Support Instrument (ESSI) as a measure of perceived social support. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to examine the association between caregiver relationship status and perceived social support.
Outcomes And Results:
There were statistically significant associations between relationship status and perceived social support, with single caregivers perceiving less social support than partnered caregivers (p < .001).
Conclusions And Implications:
Single caregivers of adolescent and adult children on the autism spectrum perceive less social support than partnered caregivers. Service providers should routinely evaluate the support access of this single caregivers and target support services to address the distinct needs of this population.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Socioemotional Development during Infancy
Primary Temperament Types
Social Anxiety Disorder
Intellectual Disability

