What are the Sources of Stress in Parents of a Child with Autism? A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Backgrounds: Autism is a neuro-developmental disability that creates stress on the parents of a child with autism. This study was aimed to examine the sources of stress in parents of a child living with autism in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Method: Through purposive/convenience sampling, 12 parents were selected and interviewed. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic data analysis. Result: The identified sources of stress were: (a) Stresses during the Diagnosis, (b) Stresses from a Busy Day-to-Day Routine, (c) Stresses from Managing the Behavior of a Child with Autism, and (d) Stresses about the Future. Implications: The existing system in Ethiopia has to proactively/actively work to address the stress and other concerns of the parents.