Stress in Parents of Preschool Aged Autistic Children Who Underwent Community Based Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention

Abstract Objectives This study investigated parental stress in 270 parents of 167 autistic children before and after 18 months of community based Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI). Methods Parental stress was measured by Swedish Parental Stress Questionnaire (SPSQ). The study examined associations between parental stress and child behaviors, as well as the influence of parental roles on stress levels. Results Compared to parents of typically developing children, both mothers and fathers reported elevated stress with mothers consistently experiencing higher levels. Mothers’ stress at intake was associated with child externalizing behaviors and fathers’ level of stress. Fathers’ stress at intake was solely predicted by mothers’ level of stress. During the intervention mothers’ stress related to role restriction and health problems reduced, while fathers’ stress remained relatively stable, except for increased feelings of incompetence in parenting, which increased. Conclusions The study underscores the need for tailored support strategies for mothers and fathers and emphasizes the intricate dynamics of parental stress, suggesting interventions that will consider factors like parent training, parental involvement, coping styles, and social support to enhance overall family well-being.