A significant body of research exists that explores the stressors of raising a child with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There are fewer studies, however, that examine specific effective coping strategies of mothers of children with an ASD. This qualitative study explored mothers' perceptions of effective coping strategies for their parenting stressors. In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 mothers to inquire about their personal coping methods. Interviews were coded and emergent themes identified that included coping strategies such as "me time," planning, knowledge is power, sharing the load, lifting the restraints of labels, and recognizing the joys. The information from this study may benefit mothers of children with ASD and inform pediatric therapists providing services to children with ASD and their families.

Date Presented 4/8/2016 This study explores service providers’ perceptions of the role of occupational therapy (OT) in community-based mental health settings. The current literature does not allow for a clear understanding of the role of OT in mental health, but it does identify the benefits of OT services through meaningful occupations. Primary Author and Speaker: Tajhma Burroughs Contributing Authors: Kathleen Mathieson, Catherine V. Belden, Margo Gross