The relationship between quality of life and psychopathology in parents of children with ASD

Abstract

The quality of life of parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a topic of interest, given the significant impact these disorders have on the entire family. This study included 84 parents of children with ASD, using the PEDSQL-FIM quality of life scale, the Psychiatric Diagnostic Screening Questionnaire (PDSQ; Zimmerman, Ciucă, & Albu, 2010), and an empirical questionnaire for demographic and clinical factors. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between parental psychopathology and various dimensions of quality of life. Depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety disorders had the greatest negative impact on parents’ quality of life.