Stress among Parents of Children with Autism

Abstract

Background:

Caring for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be a deeply rewarding but at the same time an emotionally demanding experience for parents. ASD involves various difficulties in communication, social interaction and behavior, which require intensive care and support, frequent therapeutic interventions and long-term care planning. These responsibilities, combined with societal stigma, financial strain and limited access to resources can significantly increase parental stress. Research consistently shows that these stressors can affect parental well-being, coping abilities and overall family functioning, emphasizing the need to understand the specific factors that influence stress levels in this population. Exploring stress, in this context helps build a clearer understanding of the emotional landscape that parents navigate and highlights the importance of supportive interventions that promote their wellbeing.

Objectives: 

• To assess and compare the level of stress among parents of children with Autism.


• To determine the association of demographic factors with stress.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design with a convenience sampling technique was employed select the sample of 90 parents of children diagnosed with

ASD in Belagavi. Sub scale of Stress from the “Anxiety, Depression and Stress Scale” (ADSS-BSPSA) by Pallavi Bhatnagar, Megha Singh et al. was used as the primary assessment tool.

Statistical Analysis: Chi Square, Mann Whitney U Test and percentage method were used. 

Results: A considerable proportion of parents (40%) experienced an average level of stress and there was no significant difference in the stress scores of mothers and fathers. However, the association of gender with stress was highly significant (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The level of stress among parents of children with ASD ranged from average to high, with no significant difference in overall stress scores between mothers and fathers. However, a greater proportion of mothers reported high stress compared to fathers.