COPING MECHANISMS USED BY PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM, BEFORE AND AFTER DIAGNOSIS IN IKEJA, LAGOS

Abstract

This study explored the coping mechanisms used by parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), concentrating on how parents use these strategies before and after a formal diagnosis. Parenting a child with ASD begins with vagueness, emotional distress, indecision and limited understanding, especially in communities where autism awareness is low. A descriptive research design was adopted. The population comprised 150 parents of children diagnosed with autism within the last five years, attending two specialized centers: Nurture Child Development Clinic and Patrick Speech and Language Centre in Ikeja, Lagos. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 50 parents who met the inclusion criteria. A structured questionnaire of 40items with a five-point Likert scale was used to collect data, which were adapted from the Autism Parenting Stress Index (APSI) and the Parental Stress Index (PSI). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS. Findings revealed that 42% of children with ASD live in a world of their own, and 76% of autistic children have difficulty associating with other children. 66% of parents relied on online sources to understand their child’s behaviours, and 60% were worried when they noticed their child had difficulty. 72% stated that caring for an autistic child takes more time. Family support (88%) helped them cope better with their child’s diagnosis; financial stability (84%) enabled access to coping resources such as therapy and specialized programs for their child; and a positive mindset (78%) made it easier to support their child. The study concluded that while raising a child with ASD remains emotionally and practically demanding, diagnosis marks a critical shift toward better adaptation and resilience. It recommends increased community awareness, early diagnosis, and the development of culturally appropriate support systems to ease the burden on families during both pre- and post-diagnosis phases.