Increasing, Stable, or Decreasing? The Dynamics of Family Harmony Involving Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Research

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the dynamics of family harmony involving children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methodology: Research was conducted using an instrumental case study on 20 participants (10 couples). Data were analyzed in two stages: quantitative content analysis and qualitative thematic analysis. Result: Results indicate the strengthening dynamics of family harmony involving children with ASD. Specifically, parents increasingly develop closeness as they focus on parenting. The commitment between husband and wife is also strengthened as they develop supportive communication patterns and search for various solutions to overcome conflicts and crises in the family. In dealing with conflicts, for example, the role of each family member is clearly delineated, and discussion among family members is encouraged. Other factors that affect family harmony include family acceptance of child’s condition, extended moral and material support by the family, the process and progress of child care, length of marriage, length of care for children, family income, and level of education of parents. Differences exist between the determinants of family harmony in families with children with ASD and those of a general family. Applications/Originality/Value: The condition of children with ASD might strengthen family harmony. Family harmony is an important concept, but the research on the dynamics of family harmony involving children with ASD is limited.

Not Too Involved but Really Care: Father’s Acceptance Who Have Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

“…The role of fathers in providing social support is crucial for mothers dealing with the stress of caring for ASD children. Husband's support, as observed by Fauziah (2021), significantly alleviates parenting stress. Interactions between spouses also play a vital role in optimal parenting outcomes for ASD children (Hartley, 2016).…”

“…The significance of fathers in the context of ASD is highlighted by Frye (2015), emphasizing positive impacts on family dynamics through their involvement in parenting. Fauziah (2021) underscores the importance of positive communication, commitment, and closeness between parents for a harmonious family with ASD children. Intact parental roles are linked to optimized ASD child care, independence, and the sexual development of ASD children (Kusumastuti, 2014;Maulana, 2014;Fleischer & Zames, 2010;Hoogsteen & Woodgate, 2013;Mackin, 2016).…”

“…A pivotal stage for families to provide optimal care for ASD children is the acceptance of their condition (Fauziah, 2021;Johnson, 2020;Frye, 2015;Sommer, 2013). Acceptance enables families to offer love, attention, and realistic expectations, reducing parental stress (Indah, Zikra, & Yusri, 2013).…”

“…Fauziah (2021) highlights that the perceived meaning of ASD children profoundly affects the acceptance and care processes, emphasizing the importance of positive spiritual values.Differences in stress management between fathers and mothers in the context of ASD children are rooted in their distinct problem-solving approaches. Fathers, characterized by logical…”