Quality of Life of Mothers Having Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Hamad, Nagwa Ibrahim Mohamed ,; Bakry, Samah Galal Hamed ,; Moawad, Omnia Galal Waziry ,

doi:10.21608/asalexu.2025.414958

Quality of Life of Mothers Having Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Document Type : Research articles

Authors

¹ Assistant professor Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University

² Nurse Supervisor El- Alanfoshy Pediatrics Hospital, Health Affairs Directorate – Alexandria

³ Professor Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University

10.21608/asalexu.2025.414958

Abstract

Background: mothering children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is widely identified to be
associated with life-long stressors and challenges that negatively impact the Quality of Life (QOL)
of parents. The study aimed to assess the quality of life of mothers having children with autism
spectrum disorder. Settings: The study was conducted in the Outpatient Psychiatric and
Neurological Clinics of both the Main University Hospital and Smouha Specialized University
Hospital in Alexandria. Subjects: A convenient sample of 100 mothers who have children with
ASD comprised the study subjects. Tools: Two tools were used to collect the necessary data;
namely, Characteristics of Mothers and their Children with ASD Structured Interview Schedule
and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory ™: Family Impact Module. Results: the overall parent
functioning was low among 46% of mothers and moderate among 52% of them. Moreover, the
overall family functioning was low among 64% of mothers. Generally, the overall QOL was low
among 54% of mothers whereas 46% had a moderate level. Conclusion: It can be concluded that
mothers of children with ASD are at high risk for impaired QOL across multiple domains of their
lives. Accordingly, the overall QOL was low among more than half of mothers with the remaining
showing moderate levels. Recommendations: A coordinated effort between governmental and
non-governmental organizations is essential for providing support for families having ASD
children. This collaboration should prioritize providing financial assistance and social support
services, particularly for low-income and underserved communities.

Keywords