Parental role is crucial, because parents are usually the first who have to confront with their child’s autistic symptoms and needs and they can influence the development of a peculiar psychological state of their child Parental psychological condition can affect dramatically autistic child’s development. In this study is examined whether there are any differences in emotional state as far as parents of children with autism categorized in severity level 1 (Requiring support) and parents of children with autism categorized in severity level 3 (Requiring very substantial support) concerns. For the purposes of this study a qualitative method of analysis was applied, using semi structured interviews, in order some aspects of parental everyday living with their children with autism state to be emerged and to be realistically reflected upon these interviews. The results revealed that both parents of the two groups experienced similar levels of stress and grief. However, parents of children with autism categorized in severity level 1, appeared facing difficulties in and tried to postpone accepting the reality. Thus, the negative emotions between the two groups of parents varied in duration and not in intensity. In conclusion despite of their child’ s functionality and severity level of autism, parents appeared to share similar feelings, worries, fears and needs.
Autism, emotional state differences, parents, psychology
