THE IMPACT OF AN ASD DIAGNOSIS ON RELATIONSHIPS IN THE MARITAL AND SIBLING FAMILY SUBSYSTEMS

Abstract

The theses examine the impact of a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in a child on the functioning of two key family subsystems – the marital and sibling subsystems. The focus is on the specific features of interaction between spouses and between children in a family raising a child with ASD. A theoretical analysis of domestic and international studies was conducted, which revealed that the presence of a child with ASD in the family is a significant stress factor that alters the usual structure of family interaction. To empirically test the hypotheses, a survey of mothers of children with ASD was conducted to study the dynamics of relationships within the mentioned subsystems. The results indicate an increase in emotional strain on marital relationships, a decrease in support levels, and a rise in conflict. In the sibling subsystem, ambivalence in the experiences of brothers and sisters toward the child with ASD was found, ranging from care and concern to jealousy and frustration. The conclusion emphasizes the necessity of providing psychological support to families raising a child with ASD, taking into account the specific features of each subsystem. Diagnostic data are presented in the form of graphic materials (diagrams) illustrating the key empirical trends.