Experiences of father carers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An exploratory study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the carer experiences of fathers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A total of eight South African fathers between the ages of 38 and 45 years were the interview informants. They cared for at least one child with ASD each and their children with ASD were within the age range of five to nine years (n=9, males=7, females=2, Low functioning=4, Moderately functioning=4, High functioning=1).The father carers completed a semi-structured interview. The data were analysed thematically. Four primary themes emerged from the analysis pertaining to aspects of rescoping their futures to include the care of a child with ASD, relationship issues, access to and management of resources, information and support, and carer compassion and satisfaction. The fathers shared a view that caring for their children with ASD was both stimulating and enriching, and that with time, they were able to adapt, and better respond, to the specific needs of their child