Individual, parent and social–environmental correlates of caregiving experiences among parents of adults with autism spectrum disorder

Burke, M. & Heller, T. (2016) Individual, parent and social–environmental correlates of caregiving experiences among parents of adults with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 60 (5), pp 401–411. doi: 10.1111/jir.12271
Abstract
Compared to parents of adults with other types of disabilities, parents of adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience worse well-being. Thus, it is crucial to identify the individual, parent and social–environmental correlates of caregiving experiences among parents of adults with ASD. For this study, 130 parents of adults with ASD responded to a survey about caregiving satisfaction, self-efficacy and burden. Greater future planning and community involvement related to more caregiving satisfaction and increased caregiving self-efficacy, respectively. Less choice-making of the adult with ASD related to greater caregiving satisfaction and self-efficacy. Maladaptive behaviours and poor health of the adult with ASD related to greater caregiving burden. Implications for policymakers, practitioners and future research are discussed.