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Coping and Social Support for Parents of Children With AutismEdith H. Luther RN, MSN, is a special education school nurse for the San Mateo County Office of Education, San Bruno, CA
Daryl L. Canham, RN, EdD, C, is an associate professor in the School of Nursing at San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, and was the first reader on this project
Virginia Young Cureton, RN, DrPH, is a professor in the School of Nursing at San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, and was the second reader on this project Autism in children has increased significantly in the past 15 years. The challenges and stressors associated with providing services and caring for a child with autism affect families, educators, and health professionals. This descriptive study used a survey to collect data on parents perceptions of coping strategies and social support. Instruments included the Social Support Index and the Family Crisis Oriented Personal Evaluation Scales. One half of the families identified serious stressors in addition to autism. Acquiring social support and reframing were the most frequently used coping strategies. The school nurse is in a position to identify needs and refer families to local support groups and agencies, facilitating social support and development of coping strategies.
Key Words: autism coping parents school nursing social support
The Journal of School Nursing, Vol. 21, No. 1,
40-47 (2005) |
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