Risk and Protective Factors in the Lives of Caregivers of Persons With Autism: Caregivers’ Perspectives

Abstract

These findings help to inform the planning of tailored interventions to enhance caregivers' resilience.

Parental stress and resilience in autism spectrum disorder and Down syndrome

“…The factors contributing to family resilience can be individual, such as perceived self-competence in the parental role (Pastor-Cerezuela et al, 2016), dispositional optimism (Greenberg et al, 2004), acceptance and sense of coherence (Bekhet et al, 2012); family system factors, such as cohesion, effective communication, family adaptability and family togetherness (Bekhet & Matel-Anderson, 2017;Choi & Yoo, 2015); and contextual factors, such as access to resources (McConnell et al, 2014). Moreover, in the analysis of the protective factors against parental stress and those that contribute to resilience, the consideration of cultural factors is quite relevant.…”

Needs, strain, coping, and mental health among caregivers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A moderated mediation analysis

“…In their qualitative study on the risk and protective factors in the lives of caregivers of persons with ASD, Bekhet and Matel-Anderson (2017) highlighted that stressful and challenging events, feeling unpredictable and worried about child's future, feeling overwhelmed/drained, and lack of resources were among the risk factors that affect these caregivers. This study highlighted the emotional and psychological impact on these parents.…”

Exploring the Moderating Role of Benefit Finding on the Relationship Between Child Problematic Behaviours and Psychological Distress in Caregivers of Children with ASD

“…The adaptive psychological effects of benefit finding, which refers to finding positive consequences (i.e., benefits) amidst stressful life experiences, have also been observed in the context of caring for a child with ASD. Indeed, alongside the demands and challenges, caregivers of children with ASD regularly find benefits in their role, and these often include increased feelings of relationship satisfaction, greater appreciation for life and loved ones, and greater feelings of empathy and compassion (Bekhet et al, 2017;Hillman & Anderson, 2019l;Sim et al, 2019).…”