The Lived Experiences of Mothers with Autistic Children

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to understand how mothers cope and provide different mechanisms with their children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The emotional feelings of mothers were relevant regarding their lived experiences, to release more aspects and answers, to show the importance of the influences of mothers to their children, specifically with autism, and vice versa.

METHODS

The study employed a descriptive qualitative method of research to expand the body of knowledge and gave definitions to further investigate the experiences of mothers who have children with ASD. The participants were three (3) mothers who have children diagnosed with ASD, determined through snowball sampling. The data was collected through the use of questionnaires and structured interview to gather the data needed.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that being a mother to a child with an ASD seemed to be disappointing at first but later on, mothers found out that they are a blessing, and there's more to their condition, like hidden talents. Mothers reported struggles regarding their financial problems, emotional issues, and providing comfort to their children. In addition, they spoke of the numerous roles they played and shared stories of hardships and inspiration as a result of being a mother to an autistic child. Furthermore, they were able to bridge gaps and remained a sense of optimism in accepting their role as a mother. Suggestions were made for further research on the lived experiences of ASDs on their families and how they come to be understood and accepted in our society.

DISCUSSIONS

This study is limited to mothers who have children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Calamba City. Lived experiences of mothers with children diagnosed with autism can be a legitimate stepping-stone in fully accepting and understanding them especially in our society today. This study gives a chance to all the mothers with autistic children to be understood by the community, on what they undergo in their daily instances. This also took into consideration the holistic development of the relationship between the mother and the children.