Psychological Distress Among Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder at The Newday Specialized Center System in Hanoi
List of Authors
  • Nguyen Thi Ha

Keyword
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), parents, psychological distress, anxiety, depression, Vietnam, psychosocial support

Abstract
  • This study investigates the psychological difficulties experienced by parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at the Newday Specialized Center in Hanoi, Vietnam. Using a cross-sectional quantitative design, data were collected from 56 parents through a 25-item questionnaire based on the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), covering five symptom domains: anxiety, depression, hostility, somatization, and negative self-evaluation. Results show that over 80% of parents experience moderate to high levels of psychological distress, with anxiety, depression, and negative self-evaluation being the most prominent. Female parents and those under 31 years of age reported higher distress levels. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted psychosocial support programs for parents of children with ASD, including counseling, peer-support groups, and caregiver training. The study also highlights the importance of state-level policies to strengthen mental health and financial support for affected families.

Reference
  • No Data Recorded