Psychosocial Adaptation in Parents of Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to describe the experiences of psychosocial adaptation in parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. A qualitative study of the phenomenological design was conducted using in-depth semi-structured interviews with 12 participants. The results illustrate that psychosocial adaptation can be explained through categories such as stressors, support received, perception of the situation, expectations developed, and strategies used to handle the situation. In conclusion, adaptation involves experiencing feelings of guilt, sadness, frustration, and anger, among others; however, this is followed by acceptance, seeking to provide the child with skills, thereby improving their social adjustment. Perceived support from family and spouses is identified as substantial.

Keywords

• Family adaptation
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Diagnosis
• Qualitative research
• Family