ERIC Number: EJ1134167
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017-Apr
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0162-3257
EISSN: N/A
The Experiences of Fathers Who Have Offspring with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Burrell, Alexander; Ives, Jonathan; Unwin, Gemma
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, v47 n4 p1135-1147 Apr 2017
Research exploring parents' experiences of having offspring with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) currently underrepresents fathers. This study aimed to develop an understanding of the experience of fathers, with a view to facilitating improved support. Eight fathers participated in semi-structured interviews exploring their experiences of fathering children with ASD. Fathers described their experiences as a path towards acceptance, with independence and integration for their offspring being key goals. Fathers saw themselves as advocates fighting obstructive services to access appropriate care. The value placed on formal and informal support varied, although the need for personalised support was emphasised. Enabling fathers to see their experiences as a journey, whilst engaging them on the important topics of independence and integration, may improve their experience.
Descriptors: Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Children, Fathers, Semi Structured Interviews, Experience, Parent Role, Advocacy, Phenomenology, Foreign Countries, Coping, Adjustment (to Environment)
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom (England)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A