Factors Impacting Parental Quality of Life in Preschool Children on the Autism Spectrum

Y

12

Autism Spectrum Disorders; Diagnostic Tests; Observation; Cognitive Ability; Children; Motor Development; Young Children; Adjustment (to Environment); Behavior Rating Scales; Child Behavior; Check Lists; Quality of Life; Parent Attitudes

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule; Mullen Scales of Early Learning; Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales; Child Behavior Checklist

10.1007/s10803-022-05848-w

0162-3257
1573-3432

This study examined connections between parental quality of life (QoL) and features of children (autism severity, cognitive ability, behavioral profile, and sociodemographic factors). Parents of 97 children attending an autism-specific preschool completed the Quality of Life in Autism, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales and Child Behavior Checklist. The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule and Mullen Scales of Early Learning were also administered. Reduced restrictive/repetitive behavior and higher socialization and play/leisure scores were associated with better parental QoL. Better behavioral regulation and attention also predicted better QoL, as did stronger communication and reduced internalising behaviours. Findings indicate that a child's level of autism specific traits, adaptive functioning and behavioral profile has greater impact on parental QoL than cognitive level.

As Provided

2024

EJ1415080