Exploring the experiences of parents with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the unique challenges faced by parents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) while raising preschool-aged children. It aims to understand their mental health, needs, and strengths, particularly focusing on parental stress and difficulties in mentalization and emotion regulation. By examining these factors, the study seeks to identify specific support services that could benefit autistic parents. The research addresses a significant gap in understanding the lived experiences of these individuals in the context of parenthood.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

In- and exclusion criteria for the study population:

Inclusion Criteria:

* Parents who fulfill the main diagnosis of ASD, including atypical autism (ICD-10: F84.1) and Asperger syndrome (ICD-10: F84.5)
* Age ≥ 18 years
* Have a child aged 0 to 6 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* Below-average general cognitive ability (according to clinical impression)
* Lack of German language skills
* Severe visual or hearing impairment (uncorrected)
* Serious neurological and psychiatric illnesses (e.g., epilepsy, psychoses)
* Acute suicidal tendencies (according to clinical findings)

Eligibility Criteria for the Control Group

Inclusion Criteria:

* Parents without a lifetime main diagnosis of a psychiatric illness (ICD-10-GM-2016: F10 - F69)
* Age ≥ 18 years
* Have a child aged 0 to 6 years
* Matched to the study group in terms of age and gender

Exclusion Criteria:

* Above-mentioned psychiatric diagnoses
* Below-average general cognitive ability
* Lack of German language skills
* Severe impairment of vision or hearing (not corrected)

Where it's running

• University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf
  Hamburg, Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, Germany Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Johannes Boettcher, Dr.
• Email: j.boettcher@uke.de
• Phone: +49 152 22832379

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.