Individual, parent and social-environmental correlates of caregiving experiences among parents of adults with autism spectrum disorder.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Compared to parents of adults with other types of disabilities, parents of adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience worse well-being. Thus, it is crucial to identify the individual, parent and social-environmental correlates of caregiving experiences among parents of adults with ASD. METHOD: For this study, 130 parents of adults with ASD responded to a survey about caregiving satisfaction, self-efficacy and burden. RESULTS: Greater future planning and community involvement related to more caregiving satisfaction and increased caregiving self-efficacy, respectively. Less choicemaking of the adult with ASD related to greater caregiving satisfaction and self-efficacy. Maladaptive behaviours and poor health of the adult with ASD related to greater caregiving burden. CONCLUSIONS: Implications for policymakers, practitioners and future research are discussed.