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A Qualitative Systematic Review and Meta-synthesis of Mothers’ Experiences of Parenting Autistic Women and Girls

Authors :
Oliver, Michelle
Poysden, Zoe
Gillespie-Smith, Karri
Source :
Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders; 20240101, Issue: Preprints p1-24, 24p
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

This review systematically explores qualitative evidence of the lived experience of mothers’ parenting autistic women and girls. A SPIDER search strategy was conducted on five databases and in the grey literature. Backward, forward and relevant journal scanning was also carried out. Twenty-two qualitative or mixed-method studies were included and quality appraised using CASP, encompassing over 150 mothers. A thematic synthesis highlighted five super-ordinate themes; ‘The diagnosis process and getting support’, ‘Mother’s role as all consuming’, ‘Experiences of family wellbeing’, ‘Mother as an expert observer’ and ‘The hopes and fears of mothers’. The review highlights areas of motivation to socialise, masking and menstruation needs as key differences in the autistic female presentation from a mothers’ perspective. Implications for practice are discussed.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
21957177 and 21957185
Issue :
Preprints
Database :
Supplemental Index
Journal :
Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Publication Type :
Periodical
Accession number :
ejs67245699
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40489-024-00472-z