Resolution of the child’s ASD diagnosis among Arab–Israeli mothers: Associations with maternal sensitivity and wellbeing

Abstract

This study focused on Arab–Israeli mothers of children with ASD, and examined maternal resolution of the child’s diagnosis, and its associations with mothers’ sensitivity to the child, maternal psychological distress, parenting stress, social support, and family demographics. Forty-six mothers and their 2–8 year old sons participated in the study. Mothers were interviewed regarding their resolution of their child’s diagnosis, their child’s ASD symptoms and adaptive behaviors, and completed questionnaires to assess their psychological distress, parenting stress and social support. Maternal sensitivity was observed during two mother–child play contexts, didactic and social play. Resolved mothers were more sensitive to their child during social play, and reported less psychological distress and parenting stress, as well as fewer child ASD symptoms compared with unresolved mothers. Implications for cultural sensitive parental guidance for families of children with ASD are discussed.