Predictors of Caregiver Strain for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face higher levels of caregiver strain compared to parents of children with other disabilities. This study examined child clinical features that predict high levels of caregiver strain for 374 parents of children with ASD. Caregiver strain was measured using the Caregiver Strain Questionnaire (CGSQ) objective, subjective internalized, and subjective externalized subscales. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated an acceptable fit for the original CGSQ three-factor solution. The strongest child predictors across CGSQ subscales were: disruptive behavior for objective strain, autism severity and disruptive behavior for subjective internalized strain, and oppositional behavior and hyperactivity for subjective externalized strain. Individualized interventions that attend to specific elements of parental strain may reduce strain and improve family wellbeing.

Automated summary

Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder experience higher levels of caregiver strain compared to parents of children with other disabilities. Factors such as disruptive behavior, severity of autism, oppositional behavior, and hyperactivity in children are strong predictors of caregiver strain. Individualized interventions targeted at specific elements of parental strain may be effective in reducing strain and enhancing family wellbeing.