Abstract:
Background: Social support has been found to be a major component of adaptive coping in
parents of a child with ASD or an intellectual disability. Child ASD characteristics, especially their
cognitive limitations and the long-term dependency that ensues, have been associated with
mothers’ urge to seek social support. Moreover, mothers of a child with ASD who reported being
under greater stress have reported being more inclined to pursue social support. Most parents in
this study sought knowledge from the internet in regards to their child's condition rather than
consulting the doctors that give the diagnosis to know more about the diagnosis.
Findings: This indicated that no relationships were formed between the health care providers and
the clients. This study reinforces the need for more support for parents with a child with autism
especially during the diagnosis and throughout visits to mental institutions when seeking therapy.
Autism is a lifetime disorder that warrants lifetime intervention because change is continual. Lack
of knowledge and understanding about autism, parents' attitudes on the disorder and misdiagnosis
are the major reasons for delayed diagnosis.
Recommendations: This research has indicated that strong family support system leads to positive
coping; therefore nurses should offer continual support for parents with a child with autism when
they visit any health care facility, this will help prevent anger build-up in parents protecting the
child with autism from child abuse.
