Who Joins Support Groups for Parents of Children with ASD? the Role of Attitudes and Beliefs

Background: Support groups have been shown to be an effective source of support in a number of populations (e.g., Beaudoin & Tao, 2007, Preyde & Ardal, 2003; Singer, et al., 1999). Previous research with parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has found that family demographic variables, clinical characteristics of the child, and having been referred by the diagnosing clinician predicted support group use (Mandell & Salzer, 2007). In other populations beliefs and attitudes about support groups have been an important predictor of use (Grande, Myers, & Sutton, 2006; Smith, Gabard, Dale, & Drucker, 1994).

Objectives: This study is part of a larger project examining differences between parents of children with ASD who participate in support groups and those who do not. This study focuses on differences in beliefs and attitudes about support groups.

Methods: Parents of children with ASD were invited to complete a series of online questionnaires measuring their beliefs about support groups and ASD, coping styles, social support, mood, parenting stress, and their child’s autistic symptoms and daily functioning.

Results: Data collection is ongoing. We anticipate that parents who participate in support groups will differ from those who do not in their agreement with a number of statements. Specifically, we expect that parents who participate in support groups will be more likely to agree with statements about the usefulness and value of support groups, and will be less likely to agree that support groups are distressing or difficult. We also expect that parents who do not participate in support groups will be more likely to indicate difficulties with the instrumental aspects of attending support groups, such as meeting time, location, and child care.   

Conclusions: Learning about the differences between parents who use support groups and those who do not will help in the development of interventions to support all parents of children with ASD.