Increasing, Stable, or Decreasing? The Dynamics of Family Harmony Involving Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Research

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the dynamics of family harmony involving children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methodology: Research was conducted using an instrumental case study on 20 participants (10 couples). Data were analyzed in two stages: quantitative content analysis and qualitative thematic analysis. Result: Results indicate the strengthening dynamics of family harmony involving children with ASD. Specifically, parents increasingly develop closeness as they focus on parenting. The commitment between husband and wife is also strengthened as they develop supportive communication patterns and search for various solutions to overcome conflicts and crises in the family. In dealing with conflicts, for example, the role of each family member is clearly delineated, and discussion among family members is encouraged. Other factors that affect family harmony include family acceptance of child’s condition, extended moral and material support by the family, the process and progress of child care, length of marriage, length of care for children, family income, and level of education of parents. Differences exist between the determinants of family harmony in families with children with ASD and those of a general family. Applications/Originality/Value: The condition of children with ASD might strengthen family harmony. Family harmony is an important concept, but the research on the dynamics of family harmony involving children with ASD is limited.