THE LIVED EXPERIENCE OF SELECTED FILIPINO FEMALE SOLO PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER DURING A STATE OF HEALTH EMERGENCY

Abstract

This paper explores the lived experience of selected Filipino female solo parents raising children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during a state of health emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic. Employing qualitative phenomenological investigation, semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The study employed purposive sampling and snowball techniques to gather valuable data. Results highlighted that solo parent of children with ASD encountered exacerbated difficulties, including emotional burdens, communication challenges, financial constraints, and adjustments to remote learning. They also grappled with the role of a full-time solo parent, isolation from social life, and navigating changes in social interactions. Despite these hardships, participants reported receiving support from both their immediate families and communities. They embraced protective roles for their children with ASD, adopting specialized caregiving techniques while setting boundaries and discipline. As they moved forward, these solo parents demonstrated acceptance of their childrens conditions, acquiring specialized child-rearing skills, and strengthened faith. KEYWORDS: autism spectrum disorder, COVID-19, Female solo parents, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, solo parents