Psychosocial Burden Among Parents Caring for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study in Hawassa City, Sidama Region, Ethiopia, 2025
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is severe and pervasive impairment in various aspects of development. It poses a significant psychosocial burden. There is limited data on psychosocial burden experienced by parents. This study aims to identify predictors of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and explore its psychosocial burden among parents caring for children with ASD in Hawassa city, Sidama Region. In-depth interviews (IDIs; n = 23) using purposive sampling technique, were conducted to explore the psychosocial burden among parents caring children with autism in February 2025 and March 2025. From the qualitative study findings, the psychosocial burdens among parents caring for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder were identified. Key themes included fear of judgment, cause of divorce, extra expenses and disruption of daily activities. Based on these findings, psychosocial counseling services and community based awareness programs should be provided. ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
