Abir K Bekhet1, Denise Matel-Anderson2. 1. Abir K. Bekhet, PhD, RN, HSMI, is Associate Professor of Mental Health Nursing, Marquette University College of Nursing, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; and. 2. Denise Matel-Anderson, APNP, RN, is Nursing Doctoral Student, Marquette University College of Nursing, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this descriptive exploratory study is to understand the experience of being a caregiver of a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the light of the resilience theory. METHODS: Qualitative data were collected as a part of a larger quantitative study. Ninety-three caregivers completed this qualitative study and responded to the two open-ended questions. In the parent study, subjects were recruited by convenience sampling from the Interactive ASD Network (IAN). FINDINGS: The identified categories appeared to reflect three distinct categories consistent with the resilience theory, labeled as follows: risk factors, protective factors, and overlapping factors. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: These findings help to inform the planning of tailored interventions to enhance caregivers' resilience.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this descriptive exploratory study is to understand the experience of being a caregiver of a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the light of the resilience theory. METHODS: Qualitative data were collected as a part of a larger quantitative study. Ninety-three caregivers completed this qualitative study and responded to the two open-ended questions. In the parent study, subjects were recruited by convenience sampling from the Interactive ASD Network (IAN). FINDINGS: The identified categories appeared to reflect three distinct categories consistent with the resilience theory, labeled as follows: risk factors, protective factors, and overlapping factors. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: These findings help to inform the planning of tailored interventions to enhance caregivers' resilience.