THE CHALLENGES FACED BY MOTHERS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO THE LEVEL OF AWARENESS OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the challenges faced by mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), examine their level of awareness regarding the disorder, and explore the relationship between these challenges and the mothers’ awareness of ASD. The study employed a descriptive correlational design. To achieve its objectives, two scales were developed: the Mothers’ Challenges Scale and the Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness Scale. The study sample consisted of (40) mothers of children with ASD in Tafila Governorate, Jordan.

The findings revealed that the level of challenges faced by mothers of children with ASD was high, with the following dimensions ranked in order: psychological challenges, economic challenges, and social challenges. The results also indicated that mothers demonstrated a high level of awareness of ASD. Furthermore, a statistically significant negative correlation was found between the challenges faced by mothers and their level of awareness of autism spectrum disorder.

The study concluded that the increase in challenges encountered by mothers is associated with a decrease in their awareness of ASD, highlighting the need for additional support to enhance their understanding and knowledge of the disorder.