Examining Parental Stress and Autism in the Early Days of the Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Study

Ban S. Haidar, Hedda Meadan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In this convergent parallel mixed-methods study, we investigated the early impact of the COVID-19 stay-at-home mandate in Illinois on 16 caregivers of children with autism. Our goal was to understand contributors to caregivers’ stress by integrating qualitative and quantitative data. Through a joint display, we explored the intricate relationship between caregivers’ perceptions of their child’s needs, the loss of essential services, and stress levels. The caregivers’ reported needs, wishes, barriers, and coping strategies informed and corroborated final quantitative results on stress levels. Significant associations were found between stress levels and caregivers’ agreement with statements on child supervision, service loss, and perceived level of their child’s independence. These findings underscore the importance for robust support systems that enhance family resilience and validate prior research during exceptional circumstances. They offer insights for policymakers and service providers seeking to improve the well-being of families raising children with autism, particularly in times of crisis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)144-162
Number of pages19
JournalDisabilities
Volume4
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2024

Keywords

  • COVID-19
  • mixed-methods study
  • caregiver stress
  • autism

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
  • Health(social science)
  • Health Professions (miscellaneous)

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