Οι εμπειρίες και τα βιώματα μητέρων και αδελφιών σε οικογένειες με παιδί με Σύνδρομο Asperger

Περίληψη

The present study examines the experiences of mothers, typically developing siblings and children with Asperger Syndrome (AS). Ten mothers and their children, 10 with a diagnosis of AS and 13 with typical development, from Cyprus and Greece participated to one-to-one interviews and by responding to structured questionnaires. The results indicated that family relationships were positive and supportive, whereas mothers’ social life was restricted due to difficulties related to AS. Typically developing siblings do not appear to feel neglected or overburdened with responsibilities with regard to the AS child’s support. Moreover, they reported using passive coping strategies. Children with AS appear to feel lonely and marginalized in the school and the social context. The present findings contribute to a better understanding of the difficulties and needs of the family of children with AS and highlights the importance of school and community-based psycho-educational interventions.