“We are in this together”: Experiences of relationship satisfaction in couples raising a child with autism spectrum disorder
© 2018 Background: Couple relationships play an integral role in family adjustment when a child has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet, it is unclear what factors contribute to the maintenance of relationship satisfaction in these couples. Method: Using phenomenology, data from eleven couple interv...
| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Journal Article |
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Elsevier Inc.
2019
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| Online Access: | http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/73880 |
| Summary: | © 2018 Background: Couple relationships play an integral role in family adjustment when a child has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet, it is unclear what factors contribute to the maintenance of relationship satisfaction in these couples. Method: Using phenomenology, data from eleven couple interviews were analysed to gain an understanding of the lived experiences of relationship satisfaction when raising a child with ASD. Results: The overall essence of “We are in this together” reflected the attitude that a strong partnership was beneficial in maintaining relationship satisfaction. This essence was captured in three main themes: 1) Shared beliefs, 2) Teamwork and 3) Shared experiences which closely paralleled the Walsh family resilience framework. Conclusions: Couples can be supported in these key areas to strengthen their relationship to serve as a source of resilience for families with a child with ASD. |
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