"Like something supernatural in your house": an interpretative phenomenological analysis to explore the experiences and psychological challenges of parents raising children with autism spectrum disorder.

This study interviewed four parents of autistic children to understand their emotional experiences. Parents went through tough times after diagnosis, feeling grief and uncertainty. However, over time they developed acceptance, spiritual beliefs, and stronger relationships with their children. The research shows that while parenting an autistic child brings challenges like guilt and fear, it can also lead to personal growth and deeper connections.

This qualitative study explored the psychological experiences of four parents raising children with autism spectrum disorder using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The research identified two key themes: 'From Existential Crisis to Enlightenment' and 'Transcending Challenging Experiences.' Parents initially experienced emotional breakdown and grief following diagnosis, but over time developed acceptance, spiritual beliefs, and resilience. The study highlighted how parents navigate guilt, fear, and communication struggles while ultimately forming transcendent relationships with their children. This research provides insights into both the distress and growth dimensions of parenting children with ASD, emphasizing the transformative nature of this journey.

Findings suggest interventions should address both distress and growth potential in autism parents. Support programs may benefit from incorporating spiritual/existential elements and acceptance-based approaches. Early post-diagnosis support should normalize the grief process while fostering hope for eventual acceptance and growth.

Very small sample size (n=4) limits generalizability. Qualitative design cannot establish causation. Geographic diversity may introduce cultural confounds. No comparison group or longitudinal tracking of transformation process. Selection bias possible as participants volunteered.

Parents raising children with ASD face profound psychological challenges. While existing research predominantly focuses on parental distress, opportunities for growth and transformation remain underexplored. Addressing these gaps, this study employs an existential framework and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to provide a nuanced understanding of parental psychological experiences, emphasizing how they navigate and transcend the challenges of raising a child with ASD. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four parents (three mothers and one father) of children diagnosed with ASD for at least three years.

Participants ranged in age from 31 to 50 years, while their children, all male, were aged 11 to 22 years. The participants represented diverse geographic backgrounds, including Canada, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The analysis identified two superordinate themes: "From Existential Crisis to Enlightenment" and "Transcending Challenging Experiences." Participants initially experienced an emotional breakdown following their child's diagnosis, marked by grief and uncertainty. Over time, they transitioned from despair to faith, cultivating acceptance and spiritual beliefs as essential coping mechanisms.

They also confronted significant emotional challenges, including guilt, fear of death, and communication struggles, ultimately fostering resilience and forming transcendent relationships with their children. The findings illuminate the dual dimensions of the parental experience, encompassing both distress and growth. This study offers deeper insights into the emotional and existential aspects of parenting a child with ASD and underscores the need for tailored interventions to support parents in navigating these transformative journeys.