Family Resilience, Coping, and Adaptation among Households Raising Adolescents with Disabilities, Including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Implications for Social Work Practice and Inclusive Social Protection Policies

Abstract

Families raising adolescents with disabilities, specifically those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, regularly face dense emotional, social, and economic challenges that require substantial resilience and adaptive capacity. This study investigates patterns of family resilience, coping strategies, and adaptive behaviors among families raising adolescents with disabilities in Karachi, Pakistan. The research seeks to comprehend how families pass through caregiving responsibilities, social expectations, and functional limitations while maintaining family well-being and stability.  A mixed-method research design was employed to provide a thorough understanding of these experiences. Quantitative data were collected from a purposive sample of 75 families representing distinct socioeconomic backgrounds across Karachi. Statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics and correlation tests, was conducted to examine relationships between family cohesion, handling mechanisms, and adaptive outcomes. In addition, qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with selected caregivers to obtain their lived experiences, emotional responses, and strategies for managing routine challenges associated with raising adolescents with disabilities. The findings indicate that strong family cohesion, emotional attachment among family members, and access to community-based support systems substantially contribute to positive family adjustment and resilience. Families that employed adaptive coping approaches—such as collaborative problem-solving, seeking social support, and maintaining positive family communication—demonstrated remarkable psychological stability and caregiving effectiveness. However, several structural barriers endure. Financial strain related to healthcare, therapy, and education services was reported as a major stressor, particularly among lower-income households. Likewise, social stigma and limited public awareness about developmental disabilities continue to affect families’ social participation and access to inclusive opportunities. The study features the critical role of social work practice, community engagement, and inclusive social protection policies in supporting family resilience. It suggests the development of targeted family-centered involvements, improved access to support services, and policy frameworks that encourage disability inclusion and caregiver support in developing urban perspectives. These measures can boost the adaptive capacity of families and improve the overall well-welfare of adolescents with disabilities.

Keywords: Family Resilience; Disability; Adolescents with Disabilities; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); Coping Strategies; Family Adaptation; Social Work Practice; Inclusive Social Protection; Caregiver Support.