The Experience of Parenting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Content Analysis

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to explore the range of experiences encountered by parents and caretakers of children with autism spectrum disorder. Materials and methods An inductive conventional content analysis approach was utilized for this study. Twenty-four (N = 24) parent responses to open-ended questions about their experience parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder were analyzed. Results Based on content analysis of responses, five main categories emerged: emotional distress, growth and role change, perspective change, support or the need for support, and family strain. Within the main categories, 20 subcategories were identified. Conclusion Findings from this study show that families and caretakers of children with autism spectrum disorder endorse many emotions and complex experiences, both positive and negative. The implications from these data are great and include the need for support and resources for families impacted by autism spectrum disorder.