Some Psychological and Social Problems Faced by Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Extent of Their Need for Psychological and Social Counseling in Dealing with Them

Abstract

This study aimed to identify some of the psychological and social problems faced by mothers of children with autism, and to explore their need for psychological and social guidance. The study sample consisted of 57 mothers. To answer the study questions, a descriptive study approach was followed. The results of the study showed that 77.2% of the study population always worry about the future of their children, and face difficulties in accessing educational and medical services specific to autism spectrum disorder, and 59.6% need someone to guide them in teaching their autistic children to be self-reliant. The study concluded with several recommendations, the most prominent of which are: working on raising community awareness about autism and its psychological and social effects, and organizing counseling and rehabilitation programs for mothers of children with autism, taking their needs into account in the design.