Psychology Commons^™

The Needs Of Western Australian Parents Of Children With An Autism Spectrum Disorder, As Influenced By The Age Of The Child, Kerry Stedman

Theses : Honours

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) impact upon parental stress levels above and beyond other childhood disorders. Nevertheless, little systematic research has been done on the perceived needs of parents of children with ASD. The literature has, however, reported that having a child with ASD impacts upon parental well being. These parents report increased levels of stress, depression, dysphoria, fear and marital difficulties as well as other problems. Although there is a debate in current research as to whether the age of the child with ASD affects parental well being, much of the body of knowledge suggests that different stressors and needs …