Understanding the effect of COVID-19 on two children with autism and their caregivers: a case study research design

Concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic include threat to one's physical health and shifts in daily routine, which are considered significant life stressors. The COVID-19 outbreak can be considered a global disaster, and exposure associated with disasters has been linked to negative psychological outcomes (e.g. symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder). The COVID-19 pandemic has affected various communities in unique ways, including the neurodivergent community; therefore, we explored the experience of two children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents throughout the pandemic to increase awareness of the specific needs of this population. Utilizing a case study research design, we identified eight core themes across their experience and explored effects on targeted areas of child functioning (i.e. behaviors). For one participant, visual data indicated decreases in each behavioral area (i.e. positive interactions, negative interactions, and repetitive behaviors), whereas for the second participant, visual data indicated increases in each behavioral area. These findings support that autism is a heterogeneous condition in which youth with ASD will experience and respond to emergency situations in unique ways. With this study, we aim to support the growing body of literature narrating the experience of children with ASD and their caregivers during natural disasters.