Understanding challenges among young Malaysian parents of children with autism spectrum condition: A thematic analysis of in-depth interviews

Young parents of children with autism spectrum condition (ASC) can find the task of parenting challenging, due to the frequently idiosyncratic behaviours of their children. Thus, improved awareness of these challenges is essential for young parents in order to bring about positive outcomes. This study conducted in-depth interviews with four parents of children diagnosed with ASC, comprising three mothers and one father aged 29 to 35 years old, to discover the challenges they faced when parenting their children. Inadequate knowledge among parents, psychological stress, lack of support, and anxiety and worries about their child's future were significant issues reported by the parents. The present study explores how having an awareness of such issues enables parents to take the necessary steps to respond to their personal needs and reduce their stress. To address these concerns, all stakeholders and agencies must collaborate in order to strengthen parental resilience.