The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on stress and coping in parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

by Lenka Knedlíková, Lenka Dědková, Senad Kolář, Katarína Česká, Martina Vyhnalová, Lucie Stroupková, Jana Pejčochová, Theiner Pavel, David Lacko, Ondřej Horák, Hana Ošlejšková, Pavlína Danhofer

Introduction

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in communication, social interaction, and repetitive behavior. The declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 resulted in significant changes in daily life due to restrictive measures. This period posed particular challenges for families with children living with autism, given the limitations in medical care and social services.

Objective

This study aimed to understand how families with autistic children perceive stress during the pandemic and the coping strategies employed in unexpected situations.

Method

A total of 44 families with children with ASD and 300 control families, including 44 control families in a matched subsample, were included in the study. To assess stress and parental coping with COVID-19-related stress, the Responses to Stress Questionnaire (Adult Self-Report RSQ–COVID-19) was utilized.

Results

Caregivers of autistic children experienced significantly higher stress levels (p = .027, d = 0.479) during the pandemic, with notable stressors such as limited access to medical care and challenges associated with remote work. Despite expectations, coping strategy differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Families and supporters of children with autism naturally encounter various experiences and challenges stemming from their additional needs. Our study’s results highlight an accentuation of stress during challenging situations. As these situations may recur in the future, there is a need to design and implement support plans for these families, appropriate intervention programs, and preparations for the utilization of telemedicine tools.