Promoting Family Resilience through ASD Diagnostic Assessment: An Enhanced Critical Incident Technique Study

Abstract

This study will attempt to bridge the gap between the theoretical knowledge of family resilience and the practical implementation of this knowledge. The primary objective, in conducting this study, is to better understand how families with children with ASD can capitalize on their strengths by promoting family resilience. Interviews were conducted with 12 caregivers of children recently diagnosed with ASD in Alberta, Canada. Enhanced Critical Incident Technique (ECIT) was used to analyze the interview data. Data analysis resulted in 18 helping categories, 13 hinder categories, and 10 wish list categories that encapsulated the 274 incidents/wish items identified by the participants. These categories were then further divided by relevance for professionals (Part I) and for parents/families (Part II). The categories in Part I were synthesized with existing literature to conclude, (a) practical and resource-based recommendations, (b) emotional support recommendations, and (c) systemic recommendations for professionals. The categories in Part II were also presented within the context of the current literature and external resilience-enhancing and resilience-challenging influences are presented, as well as internal resilience-enhancing and resilience-challenging influence are discussed.