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Autism Spectrum Disorder And Family Impact, Angela J. Goodwin

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Primary caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) face various specific challenges no matter the severity of their child’s ASD. Children with autism experience difficulty with social interaction and communication and experience restricted or repetitive thoughts or patterns of behavior. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) face challenges directly related to their child’s diagnosis. Parenting a child with autism exhibits high amounts of stress, and affects mothers and fathers differently. Parents who are able to successfully find coping mechanisms such as increased social support, participation in their child’s therapy, and increased optimism can assist them in parenting …