Differences in caregiver and child factors within families of autistic youth across birth order groups

Abstract

Background

Research has highlighted the ways that birth order relates to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence rates. However, little research has focused on how birth order relates to the wellbeing of the family once a child is diagnosed with ASD. Additionally, many family factors (such as measures of parental wellbeing) and elements of child emotional/behavioral symptoms have not yet been investigated when evaluating the potential effects of birth order. The current study aimed to investigate how family birth order may impact caregiver reporting of parental wellbeing/competency and child symptoms.

Method

Three groups were created based on caregivers (N = 155) who have (1) a first-born child with ASD and then child(ren) without ASD, (2) child(ren) without ASD and then a child with ASD, and (3) an only child with ASD. Caregivers completed questionnaires measuring family resources, child symptoms, and parental factors.

Results

Despite comparable ratings on family resources and ASD severity, significant differences based on birth order emerged. Having one or multiple children without ASD before having a child with ASD may enhance feelings of satisfaction and competency as a parent. Parents with an only child with ASD also reported higher ratings of competency, had significantly less ASD knowledge, and demonstrated a significant negative correlation between efficacy and knowledge.

Conclusion

Families with an only child with ASD may require further support to augment their knowledge of ASD. Caregivers who have a first-born child with ASD may benefit from interventions focusing on their feelings of parental competency.