Cognitive and Lifestyle Distortions in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to investigate the cognitive and lifestyle distortions encountered by mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Saudi Arabia, as well as their coping methods and hurdles to receiving professional assistance. 150 mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) participated in the research. The quantitative data were examined using descriptive and inferential statistics, while the qualitative data were studied using content analysis. In Saudi Arabia, moms of children with ASD have significant levels of cognitive and lifestyle abnormalities, which are interrelated and worsen each other. Important coping techniques adopted by moms included seeking social support and depending on religious coping, whereas cultural stigma and lack of understanding about available resources were major hurdles to receiving professional treatment. The results show the necessity for therapies that target both cognitive and lifestyle issues, as well as the need of providing social support and appropriate coping skills to moms of children with ASD in Saudi Arabia. The research emphasizes the need for programs that address cultural and social variables that may discourage moms from seeking professional assistance. This study sheds light on the experiences of mothers of children with ASD in Saudi Arabia and shows the need for more research and treatments to help this vulnerable demographic.