Autism spectrum disorder and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Part II: A qualitative comparison of parenting stress

Abstract

Background Researchers investigating the impact of parenting children with disabilities suggest that regardless of the specific diagnosis, parents experience increased levels of stress. However, particular disabilities may be associated with distinct stressors and strains.

Method Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and parents of children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) participated in in-depth qualitative interviews employing a basic interpretative approach.

Results Both groups described some similar stressors, such as multi-tasking, the diagnostic process, and dealing with behavioural issues, but there are distinct differences between families of children with FASD and families of children with ASD. Whereas parents of children with FASD focused on their children's illegal behaviours, parents of children with ASD struggled with their children's tantrums and anxieties.

Conclusions Supports must be tailored to meet the specific needs of parents of children with different types of disabilities.

Keywords:

• fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
• autism spectrum disorder
• parenting stress
• mixed methods

Conflict of interest: None.