Mothers’ perceived experience of social communication with their young child with ASD : a (qualitative) study

Abstract

This is a qualitative study which explores the lived experience of mothers in their social communication with their young children who have ASD. The study takes a phenomenological approach and is based on semi structured interviews with six mothers of young children with ASD. The results of the interpretative phenomenological analysis highlighted the daily stresses and worries such mothers face because of their children’s lack of communication skills and challenging behaviours. Extended family members’ and outsiders’ reactions to such behaviours and how the mothers deal with them are also illustrated in the study. Ultimately, the results show that there is the need for more awareness, support and assistance to mothers living this experience.