Literature Review: Resilience-Building Practices in Autism Parenting

Parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents persistent emotional, social, and logistical challenges that can significantly impact family wellbeing. In response, the concept of parental resilience has emerged as a critical area of research and intervention. This paper explores resilience-building practices among parents of children with ASD, highlighting the strategies that enable them to adapt positively despite ongoing stress. Drawing from existing literature, the review identifies key protective factors such as social support, positive reframing, self-care, and access to targeted interventions. Additionally, it examines the role of adaptive coping mechanisms, including problem-focused and emotion-focused strategies, in enhancing caregiver resilience. The paper also discusses the impact of resilience on family cohesion, parental mental health, and child development outcomes. Findings suggest that resilience is not a fixed trait but a dynamic process influenced by internal strengths and external resources. Recognizing and supporting these resilience-building practices can inform the development of culturally sensitive, family-centered support systems and improve outcomes for both parents and children navigating the autism spectrum.