Stigma among parents of children with autism: A literature review

Abstract

Objective: This literature review aims to summarize current findings from studies examined experiences of stigma among parents of children with autism.

Method: A systematic literature search was carried out to identify relevant studies. Two reviewers independently screened each records based on the selection criteria. Discrepancies were resolved through discussions. Included articles were classified by social-cultural settings.

Result: 25 studies were identified and included in the review, including 15 qualitative, 8 quantitative, and 2 mixed method studies. Parents do in fact experience courtesy stigma which subsequently develop into affiliate stigma. The study of stigma has not received enough attention for parents of children with autism. There lacked large prevalence studies and longitudinal studies examining stigma among parents of children with autism.

Conclusion: Parents of children with autism perceived and experienced stigma and various consequences which were varied with behaviors of autism and the severity of symptoms. Further studies should focus on developing intervention that help to erase stigma among parents of children with autism.

Keywords: Autism; Family caregivers; Parents; Stigma.