The impact of parenting stress and cultural orientation on communication skills in minimally verbal children with autism spectrum disorders: A comparative study in India and the US

• Published in: Research in autism spectrum disorders Vol. 112; p. 102337
• Main Authors: Suswaram, Suma, Brady, Nancy C., Boyd, Brian
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2024
• Subjects: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD); Communication skills; Culture; Minimal verbal; Parent-reported; Parenting stress; Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD); Communication skills; Parenting stress; Minimal verbal; Culture; Parent-reported
• ISSN: 1750-9467; 1878-0237
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2024.102337

Assessing the impact of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on communication skill development in minimally verbal children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (MV-ASD) is crucial, yet limited research exists on cultural variations of these factors. This study explored the associations between parenting stress, cultural orientation, and communication skills in children with MV-ASD from India and the US. Data were collected through parent-report questionnaires and standardized assessments. Participants included parents of children with MV-ASD from India and the US. The study examined the relationship between parenting stress, cultural orientation, and communication skills in these cultural communities. Parenting stress exhibited a negative association with communication skills in both the Indian and US groups of children with MV-ASD. Cultural orientation was identified as a moderator in the relationship when child’s communication skills predicted variability in parenting stress. This study emphasizes the influence of parenting stress and cultural orientation on the development of communication skills in children with MV-ASD across cultural communities. Understanding these factors can aid in addressing the unique challenges faced by these children and inform culturally sensitive interventions. •Child abilities demonstrate interconnectivity throughout childhood.•The impact of parenting stress on child development is crucial.•Parenting and childrearing practices are influenced by cultural norms and controlled resources.•Interventions for children with minimal verbal abilities should prioritize family-centered and culturally sensitive programs.