Interpretative phenomenological analysis of the experiences of autism and perceptions of parenting in parents with a child with autism
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Date
01/07/2014Author
Harding, Susie
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Abstract
Background: Research has highlighted that parenting a child with autism can be
challenging and stressful. However, many parents successfully cope with the
challenges posed by autism. A systematic review investigated parental psychological
predictors of positive adjustment and coping in parents with a child with autism.
Although a range of potential predictor variables were examined, including social
support, coping styles and religious beliefs, the results of the review were
inconclusive due to the conceptual overlap of predictor variables, and inconsistent
use of outcome indicators of positive adjustment. However, parental perceptions of
their situation and themselves as parents were represented across a number of
variables, and were thought to be of relevance in understanding processes of
adjustment. Therefore, qualitative research was undertaken to explore this further.
Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight parents of children
with autism on their experiences of being a parent, and their perceptions of
influences on their sense of self. The data were analysed using interpretative
phenomenological analysis (IPA).
Results: The following five super-ordinate themes emerged from the study:
‘experiencing autism as hard to know’, ‘experiencing autism as all-consuming and
extreme’, ‘diagnosis giving understanding and confidence’, ‘parenting in the eyes of
others’, and ‘dilemma of acceptance’. The meaning of these themes for parents and
how they related to their sense of self and belief in their ability was discussed. For
example, the ambiguity and difficulty in understanding autism, and the
overwhelming nature of the condition related to feelings of self-doubt in parents. On
the other hand, confidence increased when the diagnosis was identified, and when
parenting skills and the child’s progress were recognised by others.
Discussion: This research has provided a richer understanding of self-perceptions of
parenting and the impact of these experiences on a parent’s sense of self. It has
contributed to a broader literature on positive adjustment in families with a child with
autism. This understanding will be useful to those seeking to engage and support
families with a child with autism, and assist parents with coping and adjustment.