COPING STRATEGIES OF MOTHERS WITH ASD CHILDREN

Abstract

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of developmental
disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges”.
American Psychiatric Association’s defined ASD as “a single disorder that includes disorders that
were previously considered separate — autism, Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative
disorder and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified”. Objectives: To
exploration of the coping strategies of mother who are the primary care giver of the family
and children with ASD. This study correspondingly emphasized on the policy makers to bring
this subject to the agenda for the training (Coping) and support (Insurance) of mothers and
ASD children for special education needs (SEN) by the government. Study Design: Qualitative
study. Methods: This research explored mothers coping practices with ASD children in
Rawalpindi by means of qualitative study design phenomenology. Theoretical framework
used were, life course perspective and social constructivism which will facilitate the complete
process. Interview guide is made on the format suggested by Steinar Kvale. Data analysis
will be done by two analytical techniques, grounded theory analysis. Results: The results of
this study were categories which were generated were divided into two main parts positive/
healthy and negative/impaired coping strategies they are as follow:- Positive coping strategies.
a) Integration b) Networking c) Religion. And the Negative coping strategies a) Avoidance b)
Ignorance c) Isolation. Conclusion: Overall, findings indicated that mothers sorrow and grief
associated with ASD is common in every mother. Mothers coped by educating themselves.
Findings indicated feelings of shock, grief and acceptance were the part of mother’s responses,
on the discovery of their child’s autism diagnosis. Findings indicated daily routines were not
affected but the ASD child.