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BackgroundThe aim of the study was to analyse the relationship between the level of resilience and the perceived social support, primarily emotional and instrumental varieties, among mothers of children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD).Participants and procedureThe study involved 143 individuals aged 26-51 years (M = 38.41, SD = 5.02), mothers of children with ASD. The Berlin Social Support Scales and the Resilience Scale were used as data collection tools.ResultsThere were statistically significant positive correlations between the perceived emotional and instrumental support and all the dimensions of psychological resilience.ConclusionsThe results are consistent with other results presented in a similar area, but the specific context of this study should be considered – in Poland, the medical model of disability still plays a dominant role, which means that little consideration is given to the needs and problems of families raising a child with disabilities.

Contemporary research trends in area of social support of people jeopardised or afflicted by a trauma are focused on analysis of salutogenic model. It describes resources, strengths and potential of individuals, which enables them to overcome (oppose) the consequences of encountered crisis. The article presents phenomenon of posttraumatic growth of parents of children, who suffer from autism. Preventive strategies, which are adopted by such parents, are indicated by the authors. It occurs that however demanding disability of a child can be for the family, it might also be the source of emotional and spiritual changes in personality of parents. Such predicament can lead to improvement in quality of life.