Exploring experiences of Malaysian parents in raising adolescents with autism : a case study

Abstract

Parents of children with autism experience prolonged levels of stress and isolation. Thus, the present study is an attempt to explore Malaysian parents’ experiences, coping strategies and their adjustments, and maintained stability in raising adolescents with autism. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with three participants. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a thematic approach to the phemenological analysis. A family resilience framework was used to interpret the process of positive adaptations that led to resilience. Four key themes around the challenges were identified, namely the challenges associated with autism spectrum disorder, challenges that arise from the lack of understanding and acceptance, challenges of interacting with health and education services, and challenges to family dynamics and work responsibilities. The discovered coping strategies were parallel with the theory, which are meaning making of adversity, positive outlook and transcendence/spirituality