The Needs of Parents and Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Raising a child can be a stressful experience for many parents and siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Understanding the needs of parents and siblings of children and adolescents with ASD is essential for better helping the children with ASD and their caregivers. Thus, this qualitative study aimed to explore the needs of parents and siblings of children with ASD in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This study employed telephone interviews with eight participants living in Saudi Arabia who ranged in age from 19-50 years old. Five broad themes emerged from the interviews, along with sub-themes. The five key areas are the following: the need for accessing adequate information about ASD, the need for providing better services, the need for recreational and social activities, the need for government support and assistance, and the participants’ constant challenges raising children with ASD, which affect their psychological, emotional, and social well-being. The findings of this study would help healthcare providers in KSA to be aware of these needs when working with children with ASD and their parents and siblings. It will also help the government to consider these needs before offering services or designing further interventions.