Leisure, community, workforce participation and quality of life in primary and secondary caregivers of autistic children

Abstract

Parents of Autistic children often modify their participation in leisure, social, and employment activities to meet the caregiving needs of their child. However, few studies have examined the impact this has on caregiver quality of life (QoL). The aim in the current study was to examine the role of participation in a range of activities on QoL amongst primary and secondary caregivers of school‐aged Autistic children. Eighty‐eight primary (93% mothers) and 63 secondary (91% fathers) caregivers of Autistic children (aged 7‐ to 12‐years) participated in this cross‐sectional study, with time pressure, participation, social support, parenting stress, and QoL measured via an online questionnaire. Compared to secondary caregivers, primary caregivers reported fewer employment hours, increased time pressure, less participation in desired activities, and higher perceived responsibility of domestic and child‐rearing tasks. Similar levels of leisure frequency, parenting stress, and QoL were identified by both caregivers. Hierarchical regression revealed caregiver participation as important for QoL in both primary and secondary caregivers. However, when measures of caregiver well‐being were added to the model, the unique contribution of participation to QoL was reduced, particularly for secondary caregivers. Overall, the findings demonstrate that despite differences in caregiver roles and responsibilities, participation in meaningful activities was important for QoL in all caregivers.

From personification abuse to normal expression: emotional treatment for language disorders in schools

“…However, existing emotional interventions, like mediation strategies, tailored educational programs, and behavioral techniques, have often fallen short in effectively addressing language disorders in autistic students (4). Additionally, the correlation between autistic populations, language disorders, and the prevalence of personification abuse has contributed to a noticeable global increase in autism diagnoses and referrals to language care services for young students over recent decades (5,6). This personification abuse is partially linked to the heightened incidence of mental health disorders among young individuals.…”