Autistic children and their parents during war - A mixed-methods study.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• War exposure elevates children's risk for post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS).
• Autistic children exhibit heightened vulnerability to war-related psychological distress.
• Understanding the impact on families, particularly those with autistic children, is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the psychological effects of war exposure on autistic and non-autistic children and their parents.
• To compare the mental health outcomes between families of autistic and non-autistic children post-conflict.
• To identify predictors of psychological distress and qualitative experiences within these families.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews.
• 72 parents of children aged 3-17 (38 autistic, 34 non-autistic) completed standardized psychological measures.
• Qualitative data from 22 parents (12 autistic) explored experiences of difficulties, coping, routine, and functioning.

Main Results:

• Parents of autistic children reported significantly higher depression, anxiety, and PTSS than parents of non-autistic children.
• Autistic children exhibited higher PTSS compared to their non-autistic peers.
• Parental PTSS and anxiety predicted child PTSS; parental PTSS was the strongest predictor for autistic children's families.

Conclusions:

• Autistic children and their parents face unique vulnerabilities and increased psychological distress during wartime.
• War exacerbates existing challenges for autistic individuals, including reliance on routine and specialized support.
• Tailored mental health and community support are essential for the psychological well-being of families affected by war, especially those with autistic members.