{"id":809,"date":"2023-07-07T14:37:52","date_gmt":"2023-07-07T14:37:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/?p=809"},"modified":"2025-11-11T23:24:33","modified_gmt":"2025-11-11T23:24:33","slug":"resilience-in-parents-of-children-with-autism-spectrum-disorder-a-multifactorial-perspective-on-family-strength","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/2023\/07\/07\/resilience-in-parents-of-children-with-autism-spectrum-disorder-a-multifactorial-perspective-on-family-strength\/","title":{"rendered":"Resilience in Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Multifactoral Perspective on Family Strength"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Raising a child with autism can present unique and demanding challenges for parents. However, many parents demonstrate remarkable resilience in coping with these difficulties. This article will examine the concept of resilience in parents of children with autism from a multifactorial perspective, highlighting the various aspects that can influence their ability to face and overcome adversities.<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

First and foremost, it is important to define what resilience and autism spectrum disorder are. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by social and communication challenges as well as restricted and repetitive behaviours. Early intervention and support are vital for individuals with autism to thrive (Happ\u00e9, 2011; American Psychological Association, 2013). Resilience refers to the capacity to adapt and recover from adverse experiences (Herrman et al., 2011). In the context of parenting children with autism, resilience involves the ability of parents to maintain balanced mental health despite the daily challenges associated with the disorder (Baker et al., 2011; Hayes & Watson, 2013). While resilience can vary from individual to individual, several factors play a crucial role in strengthening this feature in parents (Al-Jadiri et al., 2021). Some of them will be specified below.<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

Knowledge and Understanding of Autism<\/span><\/p>\n

Parents who possess solid knowledge about autism and a deep understanding of their children’s specific characteristics and needs are better equipped to confront the challenges associated with the disorder. Access to accurate information, educational programs, and support groups can help parents acquire this knowledge and foster their resilience (Bayat, 2007).<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

Social Support and Support Networks<\/span><\/p>\n

Social support plays a fundamental role in enhancing resilience. Parents of children with autism greatly benefit from connecting with other parents facing similar situations. Support networks, whether through parent groups, community organisations, or online platforms, provide a space for sharing experiences, obtaining practical and emotional advice, and feeling understood and supported (Bayat, 2007; Chakurian, 2021).<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

Self-Care and Personal Well-being<\/span><\/p>\n

It is vital for parents to take care of themselves in order to maintain resilience. This involves attending to their physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Taking time to rest, practising relaxation techniques, maintaining an exercise routine, and engaging in enjoyable activities can help parents recharge and face challenges with greater resilience (Halstead et al., 2018; Ekas & Rafferty, 2019;).<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

Adaptive Coping Skills<\/span><\/p>\n

Developing adaptive coping skills is essential for resilience in parents. This entails learning to manage stress, setting achievable goals, seeking creative solutions to challenges, and maintaining a positive attitude. Cognitive-behavioural therapy and other psychological intervention techniques can be helpful in strengthening these skills and promoting resilience (Greff & Van der Walt, 2010; Gagat-Matula, 2022).<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

Professional Support<\/span><\/p>\n

Early intervention services, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other professional services can play a crucial role in enhancing resilience in parents of children with autism. These services not only assist in the development and progress of children but also provide support and guidance to parents. By working alongside trained professionals, parents can gain additional strategies and tools to face daily challenges, thereby strengthening their resilience and confidence in their parenting abilities (Ilias et al., 2018; Santoso, 2022).<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

In conclusion, resilience in parents of children with autism is a crucial aspect of family well-being. From a multifactorial perspective, factors such as knowledge about autism, social support, self-care, adaptive coping skills, and professional support play a key role in strengthening resilience. It is important to recognize that resilience is not innate but can be developed and strengthened over time (Luthar et al., 2000). The European Federation of Psychology Students\u2019 Associations has the opportunity to raise awareness about resilience in parents of children with autism and facilitate access to resources and support programs. By providing accurate information, promoting the creation of support networks, and fostering self-care, parents can strengthen their resilience and face challenges with greater confidence and adaptability (McConnell & Savage, 2015). Ultimately, by understanding and supporting resilience in parents of children with autism, we can contribute to building stronger and healthier families and improving the quality of life for both parents and their children (Yaacob et al., 2022).<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/span><\/p>\n

\t<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

About the author<\/span><\/p>\n

My name is Alicia Alonso Berd\u00fan and I am a Psychology student from Spain. I am passionate about research in Educational Psychology and about sharing scientific content on Psychology through social media (@takeitsimple_). Along these lines, autism is one of the topics that interest me the most, especially in terms of research and working with individuals with autism and their families. I am particularly interested in furthering my studies by delving into autism.<\/span><\/p>\n


<\/b><\/p>\n

References<\/span><\/p>\n

Al-Jadiri, A., Tybor, D. J., Mul\u00e9, C. & Sakai, C. (2021). Factors associated with resilience in families of children with autism spectrum disorder. <\/span>Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics<\/span>. 42(1); 16-22. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/DBP.0000000000000867<\/span><\/p>

<\/span><\/p>

American Psychological Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https:\/\/dsm.psychiatryonline.org\/doi\/book\/10.1176\/appi.books.9780890425596<\/span><\/p>\n

Baker, J. K., Seltzer, M. M., & Greenberg, J. S. (2011). Longitudinal effects of adaptability on behaviour problems and maternal depression in families of adolescents with autism. <\/span>Journal of Family Psychology<\/span>. <\/span>25<\/span>(4); 601-609.
 https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3987806\/<\/span><\/p>\n

Bayat, M. (2007). Evidence of resilience in families of children with autism. <\/span>Journal of intellectual disability Research<\/span>. <\/span>51<\/span>(9); 702-714. https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/pdf\/10.1111\/j.1365-2788.2007.00960.x<\/span><\/p>\n

Ekas, N., & Rafferty, D. (2019). Resilience in Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. <\/span>Encyclopaedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders<\/span>. Springer, New York, NY.
https:\/\/link.springer.com\/referenceworkentry\/10.1007\/978-1-4614-6435-8_102418-1<\/span><\/p>\n

Greeff, A. P., & Van der Walt, K. J. (2010). Resilience in families with an autistic child. <\/span>Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities<\/span>. <\/span>45<\/span>(3); 347-355. http:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/23880109<\/span><\/p>\n

Happ\u00e9, F. (2011). Criteria, categories, and continua: autism and related disorders in DSM-5. <\/span>Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.<\/span> <\/span>50<\/span>(6):540-542. http:\/\/apacu.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HAPP%C3%89-2011.-Criteria-continua-categories-ASD-in-DSM-5.pdf<\/span><\/p>\n

Halstead, E., Ekas, N., Hastings, R. P., & Griffith, G. M. (2018). Associations between resilience and the well-being of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. <\/span>Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders<\/span>. <\/span>48<\/span>(4): 1108-1121. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s10803-017-3447-z<\/span><\/p>\n

Hayes, S. A., & Watson, S. L. (2013). The impact of parenting stress: A meta-analysis of studies comparing the experience of parenting stress in parents of children with and without autism spectrum disorder. <\/span>Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders<\/span>. <\/span>43<\/span>(3): 629-642. https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s10803-012-1604-y3027. <\/span><\/p>\n

Herrman, H., Stewart, D. E., Diaz-Granados, N., Berger, E. L., Jackson, B., & Yuen, T. (2011). What is resilience?. <\/span>The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry<\/span>. <\/span>56<\/span>(5): 258-265.
https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/pdf\/10.1177\/070674371105600504<\/span><\/p>\n

Ilias, K., Cornish, K., Kummar, A. S., Park, M. S. A., & Golden, K. J. (2018). Parenting stress and resilience in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Southeast Asia: A systematic review. <\/span>Frontiers in Psychology<\/span>. <\/span>9<\/span>, 280.
 https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2018.00280\/full<\/span><\/p>\n

Luthar, S. S., Cicchetti, D., & Becker, B. (2000). The construct of resilience: A critical evaluation and guidelines for future work. <\/span>Child Development. 71<\/span>(3): 543-562. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/1467-8624.00164<\/span><\/p>\n

McConnell, D., & Savage, A. (2015). Stress and resilience among families caring for children with intellectual disability: Expanding the research agenda. <\/span>Current Developmental Disorders Reports.<\/span> <\/span>2<\/span>(2): 100-109. https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s40474-015-0040-z<\/span><\/p>\n

Santoso, T. B. (2022). Factors Affecting Resilience of Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. <\/span>International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology<\/span>. <\/span>7<\/span>(12): 502-515. https:\/\/ijisrt.com\/assets\/upload\/files\/IJISRT22DEC334_(1).pdf
<\/span><\/p>\n

Yaacob, W. N. W., Yaacob, L. H., Zulkifli, M. M., & Muhamad, R. (2022). A Journey towards Resilience: Coping Strategies Adopted by Parents with Children Having Autism Spectrum Disorder in Northeast Malaysia<\/span>. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health<\/span>. <\/span>19<\/span>(4): 2458 https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3390\/ijerph19042458<\/span><\/span>
<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Raising a child with autism can present unique and demanding challenges for parents. However, many parents demonstrate remarkable resilience in coping with these difficulties. This article will examine the concept of resilience in parents of children with autism from a multifactorial perspective, highlighting the various aspects that can influence their ability to face and overcome adversities. First and foremost, it is important to define what resilience and autism spectrum disorder are. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by social and communication challenges as well as restricted and repetitive behaviours. Early intervention and support are vital for individuals with autism to thrive (Happ\u00e9, 2011; American Psychological Association, 2013). Resilience refers to the capacity to adapt and recover from adverse experiences (Herrman et al., 2011). In the context of parenting children with autism, resilience involves the ability of parents to maintain balanced mental health despite the daily challenges associated with the disorder (Baker et al., 2011; Hayes & Watson, 2013). While resilience can vary from individual to individual, several factors play a crucial role in strengthening this feature in parents (Al-Jadiri et al., 2021). Some of them will be specified below. Knowledge and Understanding of Autism Parents who possess solid knowledge about autism and a deep understanding of their children’s specific characteristics and needs are better equipped to confront the challenges associated with the disorder. Access to accurate information, educational programs, and support groups can help parents acquire this knowledge and foster their resilience (Bayat, 2007). Social Support and Support Networks Social support plays a fundamental role in enhancing resilience. Parents of children with autism greatly benefit from connecting with other parents facing similar situations. Support networks, whether through parent groups, community organisations, or online platforms, provide a space for sharing experiences, obtaining practical and emotional advice, and feeling understood and supported (Bayat, 2007; Chakurian, 2021). Self-Care and Personal Well-being It is vital for parents to take care of themselves in order to maintain resilience. This involves attending to their physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Taking time to rest, practising relaxation techniques, maintaining an exercise routine, and engaging in enjoyable activities can help parents recharge and face challenges with greater resilience (Halstead et al., 2018; Ekas & Rafferty, 2019;). Adaptive Coping Skills Developing adaptive coping skills is essential for resilience in parents. This entails learning to manage stress, setting achievable goals, seeking creative solutions to challenges, and maintaining a positive attitude. Cognitive-behavioural therapy and other psychological intervention techniques can be helpful in strengthening these skills and promoting resilience (Greff & Van der Walt, 2010; Gagat-Matula, 2022). Professional Support Early intervention services, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other professional services can play a crucial role in enhancing resilience in parents of children with autism. These services not only assist in the development and progress of children but also provide support and guidance to parents. By working alongside trained professionals, parents can gain additional strategies and tools to face daily challenges, thereby strengthening their resilience and confidence in their parenting abilities (Ilias et al., 2018; Santoso, 2022). In conclusion, resilience in parents of children with autism is a crucial aspect of family well-being. From a multifactorial perspective, factors such as knowledge about autism, social support, self-care, adaptive coping skills, and professional support play a key role in strengthening resilience. It is important to recognize that resilience is not innate but can be developed and strengthened over time (Luthar et al., 2000). The European Federation of Psychology Students\u2019 Associations has the opportunity to raise awareness about resilience in parents of children with autism and facilitate access to resources and support programs. By providing accurate information, promoting the creation of support networks, and fostering self-care, parents can strengthen their resilience and face challenges with greater confidence and adaptability (McConnell & Savage, 2015). Ultimately, by understanding and supporting resilience in parents of children with autism, we can contribute to building stronger and healthier families and improving the quality of life for both parents and their children (Yaacob et al., 2022). About the author My name is Alicia Alonso Berd\u00fan and I am a Psychology student from Spain. I am passionate about research in Educational Psychology and about sharing scientific content on Psychology through social media (@takeitsimple_). Along these lines, autism is one of the topics that interest me the most, especially in terms of research and working with individuals with autism and their families. I am particularly interested in furthering my studies by delving into autism. References Al-Jadiri, A., Tybor, D. J., Mul\u00e9, C. & Sakai, C. (2021). Factors associated with resilience in families of children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics. 42(1); 16-22. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/DBP.0000000000000867 American Psychological Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https:\/\/dsm.psychiatryonline.org\/doi\/book\/10.1176\/appi.books.9780890425596 Baker, J. K., Seltzer, M. M., & Greenberg, J. S. (2011). Longitudinal effects of adaptability on behaviour problems and maternal depression in families of adolescents with autism. Journal of Family Psychology. 25(4); 601-609. https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3987806\/ Bayat, M. (2007). Evidence of resilience in families of children with autism. Journal of intellectual disability Research. 51(9); 702-714. https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/pdf\/10.1111\/j.1365-2788.2007.00960.x Ekas, N., & Rafferty, D. (2019). Resilience in Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Encyclopaedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Springer, New York, NY. https:\/\/link.springer.com\/referenceworkentry\/10.1007\/978-1-4614-6435-8_102418-1 Greeff, A. P., & Van der Walt, K. J. (2010). Resilience in families with an autistic child. Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities. 45(3); 347-355. http:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/23880109 Happ\u00e9, F. (2011). Criteria, categories, and continua: autism and related disorders in DSM-5. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 50(6):540-542. http:\/\/apacu.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/HAPP%C3%89-2011.-Criteria-continua-categories-ASD-in-DSM-5.pdf Halstead, E., Ekas, N., Hastings, R. P., & Griffith, G. M. (2018). Associations between resilience and the well-being of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. 48(4): 1108-1121. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s10803-017-3447-z Hayes, S. A., & Watson, S. L. (2013). The impact of parenting stress: A meta-analysis of studies comparing the experience of parenting stress in parents of children with and without autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. 43(3): 629-642. https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s10803-012-1604-y3027.  Herrman, H., Stewart, D. E., Diaz-Granados, N., Berger, E. L., Jackson, B., & Yuen, T. (2011). What is resilience?. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. 56(5): 258-265. https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/pdf\/10.1177\/070674371105600504 Ilias, K., Cornish, K., Kummar, A. S., Park, M. S. A., & Golden, K. J. (2018). Parenting stress and resilience in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Southeast Asia: A systematic review. Frontiers in Psychology. 9, 280. https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2018.00280\/full Luthar, S. S., Cicchetti, D., & Becker, B. (2000). The construct of resilience: A critical evaluation and guidelines for future work. Child Development. 71(3): 543-562. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/1467-8624.00164 McConnell, D., & Savage, A. (2015). Stress and resilience among families caring for children with intellectual disability: Expanding the research agenda. Current Developmental Disorders Reports. 2(2): 100-109. https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s40474-015-0040-z Santoso, T. B. (2022). Factors Affecting Resilience of Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology. 7(12): 502-515. https:\/\/ijisrt.com\/assets\/upload\/files\/IJISRT22DEC334_(1).pdf Yaacob, W. N. W., Yaacob, L. H., Zulkifli, M. M., & Muhamad, R. (2022). A Journey towards Resilience: Coping Strategies Adopted by Parents with Children Having Autism Spectrum Disorder in Northeast Malaysia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 19(4): 2458 https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3390\/ijerph19042458<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11730,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0},"categories":[84],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/809"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11730"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=809"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/809\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":814,"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/809\/revisions\/814"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=809"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=809"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/more.efpsa.org\/rpblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=809"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}