Author(s)

Jiayi Weng

Corresponding Author

Jiayi Weng

Abstract

Mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face unique and significant challenges in their daily lives, including emotional distress, economic strain, and social isolation. These challenges often lead to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and reduced overall well-being. This paper explores innovative community-based interventions designed to provide emotional, economic, and social support for mothers of children with ASD. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews, focus groups, and quantitative surveys to assess the effectiveness of various support strategies. Key interventions include emotional support workshops focused on understanding the emotional and behavioral needs of children with autism, peer support groups to alleviate feelings of isolation, and tailored employment and economic assistance programs to address the financial burdens these mothers face. Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of data collection to inform policy changes and improve support services. Findings indicate that emotional support workshops significantly improved mothers’ understanding of their children's emotional cues, while peer support groups reduced feelings of isolation and stress. Economic assistance and job training programs enhanced mothers’ financial stability and provided them with new employment opportunities. Data gathered from the study has been instrumental in advocating for policy changes, including targeted financial aid for low-income families and increased social services for autism caregivers. This paper demonstrates the potential of community collaboration—between government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local communities—to address the multifaceted needs of mothers of children with autism, improving both their quality of life and their children's well-being.

Keywords

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Emotional Support, Community Interventions, Social Isolation