Extra Treatment, Fear, Problem, and Care: Lived Experiences of Mothers Raising Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Island Province

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents significant emotional, social, and economic challenges for families worldwide. Globally, the prevalence of ASD has increased over the past decades, posing growing challenges for families and healthcare systems. Mothers, who often serve as the primary caregivers of children with ASD, experience substantial emotional, financial, and caregiving burdens. This study explored the lived experiences of mothers raising children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the island province in the Philippines. Using a qualitative descriptive phenomenological design, in-depth interviews were conducted with three purposively selected mothers who have children aged 5–15 years diagnosed with ASD. Data were analyzed using Creswell’s six-step qualitative data analysis procedure. Four major themes emerged from the narratives: (1) treating own child differently, (2) fearing for them, (3) problematizing therapy, and (4) caring challenges. Findings revealed that mothers experienced emotional distress, social stigma, financial strain, and difficulties accessing therapy services due to geographic isolation and limited availability of specialists. Despite these barriers, participants demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and strong parental commitment in supporting their children’s development. The study highlights the need for accessible therapy services, inclusive education programs, and government-supported interventions for families raising children with ASD in geographically isolated communities. Thus, mothers of ASD children should have extra treatment, fear, problems, and care for their ASD children. This study recommends a quantitative research to support the qualitative findings that will serve as the foundation for developing comprehensive intervention programs for these mothers of children with ASD.