Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Families of Children with ASD and Typically Developing Children: A Case Study of Pakistan

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their parents, being a vulnerable population, were expected to be highly affected by the pandemic and its containment response. This study aims to analyze and compare the impact of COVID-19 on behavioral and mental well-being of ASD and TD (typically developing) individuals and their parents/caregivers in Pakistan. A total of 51 primary data samples from both groups were collected from Rawalpindi and Islamabad using a comprehensively designed survey, consisting of 6 sections related to participants and children demographics, parental exposure to COVID-19, impact of COVID-19 lockdowns, behavioral problems and ASD support during lockdown, parental distress (estimated via DASS21) and 2 open response questions. The study found that ASD families reported increased difficulties and required more commitment than before in nearly all aspects of life as compared to the TD group. Additionally, ASD children showed more behavioral problems in terms of aggressive, repetitive, and transition activities during lockdowns than before. Moreover, comparison of machine learning models ranked 5 significant factors contributing in parental distress which include family income, severity of ASD symptoms, type of ASD therapy, parental exposure to COVID-19, and impact of lockdowns on daily routines. Majority of participants reported the need for financial support, awareness, and proper planning from the government during the pandemic. The findings of this study provide evidence which highlights the necessity of collaborative interventions from both healthcare professionals and government authorities aimed at assisting parents in reducing distress and developing effective coping strategies, especially for individuals with ASD.