4 Common Challenges for Parents of Autistic Children

Autism comes with a slew of social and behavioral challenges that not only affect the child but their parents as well. However, parents of autistic children are not alone in their struggles. Geo Psychological Testing breaks down a few of the most common challenges parents of autistic children face:

 

Communication

Autism is a spectrum disorder. Therefore, symptoms will vary from person to person. However, many autistic children experience communication challenges. Some children experience delayed speech and language development, while others are simply non-verbal.

These barriers are stressful for parents. When a child is unable to communicate their needs, their parents cannot accommodate them. When an autistic child’s needs are unmet, they can become frustrated and aggressive.

 

Finances

Depending on the severity of a child’s symptoms, an autism diagnosis can affect a family’s finances. For children with severe autism, they likely require special academic accommodations, a caregiver, speech or behavioral therapies, etc. For families without insurance, these sorts of accommodations can be burdensome.

In many cases, it is more affordable for a parent to quit their job and become their child’s full-time caregiver; however, this is still a loss of income. 

 

Family-dynamics

Having an autistic child affects not only the parents but other household members as well — including the child’s siblings. Children require a lot of special attention, but children with autism require more than the “average” child. When parents are accommodating one child, their other children may feel neglected.

Having a child with autism can also affect a couple’s marriage. If one parent is focused on the needs of their child and fails to nurture their relationship, their partner may feel neglected. Families must work together to adapt to their new normal.

 

Socializing

Autism comes with a unique set of social challenges. Children with autism often experience communication issues, as well as social anxiety and overstimulation. Children with autism are often overwhelmed by loud noises and don’t pick up on social cues. Furthermore, children with autism struggle with behavioral issues — and with the social stigma surrounding autism, many people do not understand why autistic children behave the way they do. Therefore, many people with autistic children feel they have to limit social engagements to accommodate their children’s needs.

Suspect your child may be on the spectrum? At Geo Psychological Testing, our professionals specialize in autism testing! Contact us to learn more.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!