Family adaptation among parents of children on the autism spectrum without a comorbid intellectual disability: A test of the Double ABCX model

Abstract

BackgroundThis study examined family adaptation among parents of school age children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who do not have a comorbid diagnosis of intellectual disability (ID). Family adaptation was measured by parents’ perceived family quality of life and satisfaction with life. Associated factors were derived from the Double ABCX model of family adaptation (i.e. autism symptom severity, problem behaviours, pile-up life demands, social support, cognitive appraisals and coping strategies). In particular, we were interested in the potential association between positive contributions directly associated with this caregiving experience and outcomes. MethodParticipants (N = 104) were parents of school age children who had a diagnosis of ASD and no comorbid ID. Parents completed a battery of self-report questionnaires via online survey. ResultsAll variables within the model were associated with one or both of the outcomes, with the exception of problem focused coping. Social support, positive contributions and passive-avoidance coping remained significant unique predictors of both outcomes within multiple regression analyses. Passive avoidance coping was found to moderate the relationship between symptom severity and parents’ satisfaction with life. ConclusionsThe Double ABCX Model provides a useful framework in identifying risk and protective factors for parents. Support was provided for inclusion of both positive predictor and outcome variables, at the individual and family level. Proximal variables, such as maladaptive coping strategies, may explain associations between stressors and wellbeing. Methodological considerations and implications for clinical practice are discussed.