Effect of Autism on the Individual and Their Family, A Study Conducted Among Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Population in Kerala

• Main Author: Mohan, Sangeetha
• Format: Book Section
• Language: English
• Published: School of Social Sciences 2015
• Subjects: H Social Sciences
• Online Access: http://eprints.usm.my/37638/1/sspis_2015_ms570_-_580.pdf; http://eprints.usm.my/37638/
• Institution: Universiti Sains Malaysia

This study explores and analyses the experience of family members of ASD individuals in Kerala .This paper examines the socio-psychological and cultural impact of ASD to the parents and siblings of ASD kids. This study was undertaken using an exploratory design and conducted 4 case studies along with in person semi – structured interviews to address the research question, apart from the collective case study research method, cross case analysis were done. This study was conducted in Trivandrum district of Kerala state India .The results emerged include 4 major things; one, all aspects of the family were affected with ASD. Second the parents of the ASD individuals are facing stress, depression and social isolation. Third there are some serious character aberrations found among the siblings. Fourth lack of support from the spouse especially husbands in the proper upbringing of the ASD child; Discussion of these research findings and the recommendations contributed to the current research and existing literature on the impact of ASD to the family.