A Study on the Coping Skills, Attitudes and Interpersonal Relationships of Families of Autistic Individuals

Abstract

A family fulfills its obligation in the true sense when the needs of every member are met, when positive relationships are created, and when each person is supported in love and serenity. This descriptive study aims to determine the coping skills as well as their attitudes and interpersonal relationships. Coping styles are ascertained because it is a major factor on the autist’s improvement and on family dynamics as well. Coping styles are an individual’s attempts to solve problems associated with the disabled child’s condition. The respondents’ levels of acceptance are also studied to show how it influenced their attitudes and interpersonal relationships. Autism, a developmental disorder that involves a wide range of problematic behavior, was first illustrated by Leo Kanner. It affects about one to two children in 1,000 and occurs about four to five times more frequently among boys than girls. The main features in the diagnosis of autism are little or no language, little or no emotional attachment, marked inattention, and lack of imaginative play. Although the pathogenesis of autism 1s undetermined, overwhelming evidence insinuates that a brain defect underlies the disorder. Studies show that all people who have autism can improve significantly with proper instruction. Treatments include behavior modification, medication, facilitated communication, vitamin and mineral supplements, auditory training, and vision therapy. The 15 respondents all belong within the age bracket of 13-62 years and have a relative who is autistic. All respondents are members of the Autism Society Philippines (ASP). The respondents were purposively chosen from the list of members of the organization. The ASP caters to the needs of the autists and their families. The study entailed answering a five-paged questionnaire. Through the questionnaire, the researcher was able to gather information regarding the following: background of the autists, the signs that pushed the family to seek medical help, the remarks made by other people against the autists, the family members’ observed strengths and weaknesses of the autist, as well as the autists’ hobbies and lines of interest. The gathered data also furnished a profile of the respondents, their reactions, and level of acceptance of the autist. Information regarding the coping skills utilized by the family members were included. Through the questionnaire, the respondents’ attitudes and interpersonal relationships were also examined. All six disabled children were diagnosed to have autism when they were in their early childhood (1-4 years old). Five of the autists included in the study were male, reflecting the prevalence of autism and other childhood mental disorders in males than in females. Results showed that the respondents were initially depressed and shattered by the child’s diagnosis. Most parents had difficulty grasping the situation they were suddenly in. Yet, it did not take time for the family members to accept the condition and started dealing with it sensibly. Most respondents felt redeemed and fortunate enough to be able to take care of a special child. Respondents admitted that they consider the autistic individual as a challenge to their character as a person. The autist’s impairment had helped them see things from a whole new light. The family members included in this study were all educated. Their high level of education had allowed the family members to be able to collect resources regarding the condition. These resources helped them to understand what autism is all about and how can they deal with it. Due to stressful situations raised by the autist’s disability, family members are compelled to cope with the dilemma. The coping skill most frequently utilized is thinking of how they can best handle the situation. This coping strategy is frequently followed by prayers to the Lord, asking Him for guidance and strength. The family members’ religious nature made them count on God’s power to help them deal with the situation they are in. Seeking for information regarding their current problem is also deemed helpful to the family members. Their educational attainment provided them access to resources and medical services which they need. The family members are also fully aware that there is no one responsible for causing the condition. Though other family members in a similar predicament consider drinking alcohol or taking illegal drugs to relieve them of their burdens, family members who took part in this study reported that resorting to such strategies can never help them solve their problems. Though faced with a distressing predicament, the family members maintained a positive outlook in life. They see themselves stronger and wiser as a person. Though they initially rejected the idea of being related to a special child, most of the respondents were proud of their autistic family member and what he/she has achieved. The presence of the autist in the family did not affect the way the respondents’ perceive other people. The family members do not envy other ordinary families since they have been well-adjusted to theirs. They also learned how to bear other people’s discriminating labels upon them. The respondents, along with professionals, took the initiative in educating laymen about the disorder. Family members are aware that one of the autists’ impairments center on their social skills. However, the respondents still strive to maintain a personal connection with the special child. They are completely devoted to the child. The family members also attempt to make themselves available to the autist. They believe that nurturing the autist will help the latter improve through the years. Though the cooperation of both families and therapists is said to be the most successful in treating the autist, only the mothers who are included in the study affirmed to having a relationship with the autist’s teachers. The mothers appreciate it if they are included in the school activities. Mothers, who are frequently the primary caregivers, have completely dedicated their time and support to the autist. The respondents’ friends and relatives were also very supportive of the autist. They encourage the family of the autist to maintain close contacts with them. Though most of these friends and relatives barely understand the nature of autism at first, they try to understand what the family is going through. Instead of demeaning the family, they extend love and assistance.