Predictors of marital satisfaction for couples who have a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
Abstract
The following study examines the impact of having a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on the couple's marriage. The specific research question addresses whether attributions of negative events within a marriage, blaming a child with an ASD for negative events within a marriage, and perceived spousal support were predictive of marital satisfaction for couples who have a child with an ASD. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed support for the hypothesis that couples who have a child with an ASD who score lower on measures of negative attributions of negative events within their marriage, lower on blaming their child with an ASD for negative events within their marriage, and higher on perceived spousal support will score higher on marital satisfaction. The implications of these findings for marriage and family therapy clinical practice are discussed.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Keiley, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology
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