Service Access to Reduce Parenting Stress in Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Purpose of the Review: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are on the rise. Research has consistently shown that parents of children with ASD experience high levels of stress that impacts their health and emotional well-being. Recent Findings: Parents of children with ASD report more stress and psychological distress than parents of children with other disabilities and typically developing children. Stressors are present throughout the child’s lifespan and are exacerbated at transition points (e.g., transition from high school to adulthood). However, support services may help alleviate parental stress. Summary: Parents of children with ASD experience significant parenting stress that impacts their emotional and physical well-being, as well as their marital relationships. Research has identified possible interventions to help these parents cope. Future research should focus on evaluating the impact of policy change to allow existing systems to implement the recommendations in line with research findings. © 2018, Springer International Publishing AG, part of Springer Nature.