Impact of COVID-19 on psychological well-being of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder in eastern India

Manisha Choudhury; Payal Chandel

doi:10.53730/ijhs.v6nS1.6744

Authors

Manisha Choudhury
manishachoudhury3119@gmail.com
Ph.d Scholar (Allied and Behavioural Sciences), Amity School of Allied and Behavioural Sciences (AIBAS), Amity University Rajasthan, SP-1, Kant Kalwar, RIICO Industrial Area, NH-11C, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Payal Chandel Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Central University of Haryana

Keywords:

Psychological well-being, Mental strain, Parents, Autism, COVID-19, Telerehabilitation

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in adverse psychological effects in children diagnosed with autism, whereas only few research studies are being conducted to study the psychological impact and burden on the parents during this pandemic. Aim: The objectives of the current study were to examine the psychological well-being and the effect in perceived strain among parents during the COVID-19 outbreak in eastern India. Method: Parents of 290 children completed an online survey which investigated variables like demographics, perspective and use of tele-rehabilitation, routine homecare therapy, parent’s strain and psychological well-being. Result: Data analysis revealed prevalence of symptoms associated with depression, anxiety and stress factors, which was found to be 65.5 %, 20.6 % and 37.4 % respectively. A significant difference was observed regarding perceived strain among the parents (p < 0.001, effect size = 0.92). Parents from rural areas not aware of tele-rehabilitation resulting it as poor mode for rehabilitation indicated higher risks for mental issues whereas a negative perception regarding homecare therapy was strongly associated with higher psychological symptoms and mental strain. Conclusion: Present study associated higher prevalence of depression and significant change in strain exhibited by parents during the sudden COVID-19 outbreak.

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