Repository | Book | Chapter

Based on a double ABCX model we studied coping with stress in families with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this model A stands for stressors, B for coping strategies and support, C for the appraisal of the situation, and X for the potential adaptive behavior of fathers in our study. Within the model we selected 19 variables for this study, evaluating family adaptation along the evaluation of parental stress and family satisfaction. Special attention was paid to the existential experience of the stressors in C.In the study responses of mothers (n = 54) and fathers (n = 35) with children (age 9–38) with ASD were analyzed. In addition, responses of professionals from seven educational centers supporting the studied families were taken into consideration. The hierarchical regression equation showed varying degrees of depression in 58 % of mothers and 67 % of fathers, 41 % and 40 %, respectively, for family satisfaction. The variables that appeared most significant for family adjustment were grasp of the situation and demand pileup. Coping strategies and child stressors were less significant. The support variable did not contribute significantly to variations in the model. The study proves that the cognitive definition of the variables of stressors and meaning in life experience ought to be promoted in support programs for families with children with ASD.

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-29424-7_17

Full citation: