When a diagnosis of autism is received, an individual may wonder how does autism affect family life. That’s a very valid concern. Dynamics within the family likely will be affected. Things may be different than before, but adjustments can be made. Autism doesn’t have to mean life will be difficult. Keep reading to discover some of the issues that can be expected.
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Parenting Adjustments
From the time they discover they’re going to become parents, people usually have many dreams for their children. These expectations may not ever be voiced, but they still remain. When they are given an autism diagnosis for their child, their ideas about the child’s capabilities sometimes change. They may think the possibilities they once envisioned can no longer come true. This doesn’t have to be the case. Just as every child is unique, each child with autism is their own person as well. While a child may experience limitations due to their cognitive or emotional abilities, parents may find that their kid has a host of other special qualities they weren’t aware of before. Parents should be aware that some adjustments will likely need to be made in order to accommodate their child’s needs, but these things can be learned and practiced over time.
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Family Experiences
When it comes to how autism affects family life, Psych Central explains how it’s important to recognize the fact that the family unit and dynamics within that group will be changed by the diagnosis. There’s no way around it, but the news doesn’t have to be tragic. Family outings, holidays, traditions and other experiences done as a group can become a challenge when there is a child on the spectrum involved. Accommodations can be made to help the autistic child feel more comfortable and to assist the family in keeping expectations as realistic as possible. With some physical modifications and adjustments in mindsets, lots of fun family memories can still be made. Families should continue to do things together, rather than opt out of activities simply because they seem too challenging or overwhelming.
Marital Issues
Couples can encounter difficulties within their marriage after their child is diagnosed with autism. They may receive the news differently and not feel comfortable talking to each other regarding it. This can cause problems, as can differing expectations on how to manage all of the new changes affecting the family. Time together as a couple can become hard to find, which only makes current stresses worse. Extra effort is needed to address these issues. Making dates to spend alone and reconnect is crucial, as is ensuring that the lines of communication remain open.
Sibling Relationships
Parents may worry that extra time spent with the autistic child on appointments and behavior management may negatively affect their other children. While this can occur, it doesn’t mean the other children will suffer. They can gain empathy and awareness when parents make efforts to communicate with all of their children regarding a sibling’s special needs. Relationship bonds don’t have to be compromised. They often become stronger.
These are just some things to consider when a child is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. When considering how does autism affect family life, it’s important to remain positive and to know that each family is unique.
