Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
Gonal Amruta M and Pujar Lata

Abstract:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifetime condition that involves persistent impairments in language, social skills and daily life activities. Difficulties in child-rearing, which are present from early ages put strong pressure on parenting. Bringing up a child with autism can be challenging for parents due to the severity of autism. The present study was conducted to know stress factors in parents of children with autism. Study included 82% of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders selected from different special schools and therapy centres located at Hubballi, Dharwad and Bengaluru cities during the year 2021-2022. Self-structured questionnaire and Parenting stress scale by Abidin, were used for data collection. Results revealed that majority of the mothers and fathers were in the age group of 30-40, studied till graduation and fathers were professionals and mothers were housewives. Majority of the parents had clinically significant (74.40%) levels of stress. Occupation and marital status were only the two factors which showed significant association with parenting stress. Parents in the age group (30-40 years) and education graduation had influence on parenting stress. The identification and understanding of the factors that contribute to parenting stress is necessary to address the psychological needs of parents to manage their mental health.