Year: 2025 | Month: November | Volume: 15 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 123-137
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20251117
Perception and Awareness About Autism Self-Care Management Related Strategies in Parents of Autistic Children - A Quantitative Study
Dr. Binisa Patel1, Dr. Namrata Parekh2, Dr. Manisha Rathi3
1Final year MPT Student, Venus institute of physiotherapy, Swarrnim startup and Innovation University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India,
2MPT [Neurological conditions], Assistant Professor, Venus Institute of physiotherapy Department, Swarrnim startup and Innovation University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India,
3Principal and Professor, Venus institute of Physiotherapy, Swarrnim startup and Innovation University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India.
Corresponding Author: Dr. Binisa Patel
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviours. Caring for children with ASD often imposes substantial emotional, physical, and psychological demands on parents. Effective self-care strategies are essential to help parents cope with these challenges and maintain their well-being. Understanding parents’ awareness and perceptions of self-care management can guide the development of tailored support systems that enhance family functioning and the child’s developmental outcomes.
METHODOLOGY: A quantitative, descriptive survey was conducted among 104 parents of children with ASD. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic variables and five dimensions of self-care: physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and professional. Data analysis included frequencies, percentages, standard deviations, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation using SPSS to examine associations between awareness levels and demographic factors.
RESULTS: Parents face multifaceted challenges affecting all self-care domains, including time constraints, work stress, sleep deprivation, and financial pressures. Caregiving responsibilities managing behaviours, fostering social skills, and maintaining emotional stability further limit engagement in self-care activities. Many parents reported minimal participation in therapy, leisure, stress reduction, boundary-setting, and spiritual practices, highlighting gaps in holistic coping strategies.
CONCLUSIONS: Addressing barriers through counselling, stress management programs, flexible work policies, and social support can enhance parental well-being, enable more effective caregiving and promote positive outcomes for children with ASD.
Key words: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Self-Care Management Strategies, Parental Awareness, Caregiver Stress, Quantitative Study