Families' Experiences and Occupations Following the Diagnosis of Autism

Abstract

The unrelenting and persistent behaviors often demonstrated by children with autism, together with the uncertainty surrounding diagnosis and intervention options, pose a significant threat to the occupations of the family system. The purpose of this study was to explicate the experiences of living everyday life following the diagnosis of autism. Seven families were interviewed and using grounded theory methodology the research team investigated family experiences following a diagnosis of autism. Results informed the development of the preliminary Family Experience and Occupation Following the Diagnosis of Autism Model that explicitly framed family experience, the element of family occupation, and factors that mediate both experiences and occupation. By looking at family occupations from the time of diagnosis of a child, this work transcends the individual. It captures the co-constructed interplay of doing as families organize and seek ways to maintain everyday family functions.

Keywords:

• Grounded theory
• Family health
• Occupational engagement