ERIC Number: EJ1434151
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Aug
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1056-263X
EISSN: EISSN-1573-3580
The COVID-19 Pandemic Experience for Families of Young Children with Autism
Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, v36 n4 p729-754 2024
This study examined caregivers' lived experiences during the initial weeks of stay-at-home mandates within the unique socio-cultural and healthcare context of the United States. To learn about the experiences of caregivers during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted seventeen semi-structured interviews with caregivers of young children with autism (ages 3-8) in Illinois. The inability to meet demands, the abrupt loss of social and therapeutic support, and the loss of opportunities for leisure and self-care took an emotional toll on the caregivers and the families. Although four caregivers attributed positive changes in their lives to the lockdown (e.g., more family time and improved academic standing for their child), the reported negative impacts overshadowed the positives. To foster resilience and reduce the adverse long-term effects of world-changing events on families of young children with autism, the information gleaned from this study can inform educators, service providers, and other concerned parties about unique considerations when creating future proactive and responsive support measures.
Descriptors: COVID-19, Pandemics, Experience, Young Children, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Child Caregivers, Mental Health, Family Environment, Social Support Groups, Daily Living Skills, School Closing, Childhood Needs
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2123/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Illinois
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A