Parental Psychological Adaptation to an Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis Over Time

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Parents face significant emotional challenges upon their child's ASD diagnosis, requiring them to reevaluate their family life projects.
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The study involved 21 parents, primarily mothers, who shared their experiences through the Reaction to Diagnosis Interview.
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Findings revealed themes of suffering and struggle, with many parents experiencing unresolved feelings regarding the diagnosis.
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Gender differences were noted in managing child-related tasks and coping strategies among parents of children with ASD.
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The diagnosis experience is an ongoing process of meaning-making that evolves with the child's development and requires cognitive reconstruction.

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