A Study on Life of an Autistic Child with the Support of Supportive Systems

Abstract

The literature on the adaptation of families of children with disabilities repeatedly indicates that is it important for service providers to understand family belief systems, both in a general sense and with respect to each family as a unique entity. Researchers document the importance of understanding families’ worldviews. The selection of treatments and the decision making about the day-to-day care of children with ASD typically involves negotiation by both parents. However, often only the mother’s perspective is represented in literature. Since mothers and fathers of a child may have different appraisals of their child’s treatment needs, the parents’ different appraisals can be a source of stress for parents and a cause of unease and potential arguments. The article analyzes in detail these core domains in relation to the lives of autistic kids. The author suggests that a collaborative approach between professionals/researchers and autistic kids is needed to develop meaningful solutions to these challenges, and presents possibilities for collaboration.