Title

CHALLENGES OF FATHERS WITH AUTISM SPECRTUM DISORDER
CHILDREN: A DESCRIPTIVE PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

Author(s)

MIKHAELA ELISHA PADIGOS

DANIELLE M. PASTRANO

QUENIE S. PINGKIAN

JUSTINE SHANE M. PIEDAD

MECHELLE M. SALUTA

Affiliation

Misamis University

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Contributor

Robles, Chona J.

Ocapann, Jesus Jr. G.

Elmedulan, Arnielyn M.

Adlao, Louie Jay O.

Year

2024

Abstract

Raising a child with special needs presents unique challenges for parents, requiring additional care due to physical, emotional, health, or developmental needs. Research indicates that fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face greater difficulties compared to fathers of typically developing children, significantly impacting their psychological health. Contributing factors to paternal stress include financial difficulties, anxiety, and a lack of social support. This study aims to understand the
challenges faced by fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in
Ozamis City, which utilized Sister Callista Roy's Adaptation Model of Nursing to explore their coping processes, adaptive responses, and quality of life. Employing a descriptive phenomenological research method, this study analyzed data using Colaizzi's seven-step method, with four participants selected through purposive
sampling. Interviews revealed three main themes: emotional responses (disbelief, sadness, worries), difficulties experienced (work cancellation, paternal involvement, financial challenges), and fatherhood roles (supporting learning, monitoring needs, consistency in instructions, encouraging peer interaction). The
researchers recommend education on childcare and collaboration between LGUs, BHWs, and health officials to support fathers of children with ASD. The study highlights the crucial role of fathers in the development of children with ASD, emphasizing their emotional resilience and active involvement.

Keywords

acceptance, autism spectrum disorder, emotional response,
challenges, difficulties experienced, father roles