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Published on: September 19, 2019
Experiences, Difficulties, and Coping Mechanisms of Parents With Children With Autism: A Phenomenology Study in
Gamze Kaş Alay1, Havva Kaçan2, Seniha Kurtoğlu3
1Department of Child Health and Diseases Nursing, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Türkiye.
Background:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has the potential to create a number of challenges and problems for parents due to having lifelong problem behaviors.
Purpose:
The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences, difficulties, and coping mechanisms of parents with children with ASD through a multidisciplinary team approach.
Methodology:
This study employed a descriptive qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through semi-structured, face-to-face individual interviews with 12 parents, guided by a structured interview protocol. Data management and analysis were conducted using the MAXQDA program. A thematic approach was used in data analysis.
Results:
Participants reported experiencing both challenges and positive emotions related to raising a child diagnosed with ASD, and described a variety of coping strategies. Thematic analysis of the interview data revealed five key themes centered on parental perspectives: (1) parenting a child with ASD, (2) families' reactions to the diagnosis, (3) psychological and social difficulties, (4) future-related concerns, and (5) perceived support needs.
Conclusions:
Parents of children have ASD have to cope with many problems throughout their lives. Resources are needed to support parents bio-psycho-socially. Enhancing the provision of standardized education and support to parents can be achieved by improving existing health and social policies, establishing formal support networks, and facilitating access to childcare services.
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