TITLE:
Changes Experienced by Brazilian Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Their Work Routine and Social Life
AUTHORS:
Suely Ruiz Giolo, Yasmin Roberta Fernandes, Adilson dos Anjos
KEYWORDS:
Autism, ASD, Autistic Disorder, Neurodevelopmental Disorder, Well-Being
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.10 No.6,
June
30,
2023
ABSTRACT: This study aimed to explore the situations and changes Brazilian parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience in their work routine and social life and to understand the impact of them on their well-being. The cross-sectional study sample comprised 461 parents of children with ASD who completed an online questionnaire containing multiple-choice and open-ended questions. A descriptive analysis summarized the quantitative data, while a content analysis organized and elicited meaning from qualitative data. Most parents expressed a marked or moderate impact on social life. Around 34% had to leave their jobs to care for their child with ASD. For those who kept their jobs, 53.3% had a marked impact on their work routine, while 39.6% had a moderate impact. Our findings suggested that the severity of the child’s ASD symptoms, the high costs of ASD-related therapy, and all changes Brazilian parents need to make in their work routine and social life to adapt to the new reality influenced their overall well-being. Many parents cited mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Thus, as the challenges of raising a child with ASD are enormous, parents must have people who can support them, whether family and friends or specialized professionals. Additionally, encouraging them to join existing support groups would be very helpful in assisting them in dealing with any challenges and balancing all dimensions of well-being.