Abstract
The aim in the current study was to explore the coping strategies of parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in regional Australia. Mothers (n=l2), fathers (n=3) and one grandmother took part in semi-structured interviews to discuss the problems they faced and their coping styles. All participants reported adopting problem-focused coping strategies. They discussed their innovative solutions to cope with stress and to tackle the lack of support structures and health services in regional Australia. On the other hand, only mothers reported using social support resources as a major coping strategy. These resources included engaging with their friends and accessing local ASD support groups. Another theme that was common to both genders was social withdrawal, which they attributed to society's insensitive attitude towards "Autism" and Autistic children. Greater awareness of ASD in the general populations will reduce this stress on parents. Also, an understanding of the factors behind the coping strategies adopted by parents of children with ASD, and their health service needs, will facilitate better delivery of healthcare and support structures for them.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Stress and anxiety |
| Subtitle of host publication | Theories and realities |
| Editors | Kathleen A. Moore, Petra Buchwald |
| Place of Publication | Berlin, Germany |
| Publisher | Logos Verlag |
| Chapter | 11 |
| Pages | 119-127 |
| Number of pages | 9 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9783832547172 |
| Publication status | Published - 25 Jun 2018 |