Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting about 1 in 160 children globally. Caring for children with ASD can be challenging, requiring effective coping strategies. To explore coping strategies and resources used by caregivers of children with ASD in a Ghanaian healthcare setting. A qualitative phenomenological approach with an exploratory descriptive design was used. Ten caregivers of children with ASD at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital's neurology clinic were purposively selected. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically using the ABC-X model of family stress. Caregivers mainly adopted emotion-focused coping strategies, such as acceptance, optimism, prayer, and seeking knowledge. These were supported by individual resilience, familial assistance (especially from spouses and siblings), and communal support from religious groups and healthcare providers. Caregivers rely heavily on emotion-focused strategies and support systems. Strengthening these supports at individual, familial, and communal levels is essential.
Appah et al. (Sat,) studied this question.