LE BIEN-ETRE EMOTIONNEL DES PARENTS DENFANTS AUTISTES

The impact of autism on parents quality of life is an undeniable clinical reality. Quality of life, a multidimensional concept, encompasses various interdependent domains that can be assessed. Evaluating the emotional well-being of parents of autistic children, particularly as a function of the childs age, has become a major concern. The challenges associated with raising and caring for an autistic child can lead to chronic stress, sleep disturbances, relationship difficulties, and a decline in overall quality of life for parents. This study is situated within this dynamic, seeking to understand how the childs development influences the emotional well-being of their parents, and thus to identify risk factors associated with increased psychological distress. The results will not only allow for the identification of the specific needs of these parents but also for the development of personalized support strategies to prevent mental health disorders and improve the quality of life of parents. Objective: We are specifically interested in the emotional well-being of parents of autistic children. Method: We explored the relationship between parental emotional well-being and the childs age by collecting data from 50 parents (25 mothers and 25 fathers) using the Beach Quality of Life Scale. Results: Our results reveal a significant correlation between the childs age and the level of parental emotional well-being, suggesting that the childs age could significantly influence the parental experience. Conclusion: These results highlight the crucial importance of implementing appropriate supports to accompany parents of autistic children, particularly those with younger children who may benefit from specific resources to cope with developmental challenges.