Exploring the experiences of parents with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Being a Parent with an Autism Spectrum Disorder: Strengths, Challenges and Adaptation of a Mentalization-based Parenting Program
Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf · NCT06502054
This study looks at the challenges and needs of parents with Autism Spectrum Disorder who are raising young children to see how they can be better supported.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 184 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Hamburg, Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg) |
| Trial ID | NCT06502054 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are parents aged 18 years or older who have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and a child aged 0 to 6 years.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or those with severe cognitive impairments or psychiatric illnesses may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to tailored support services that enhance the parenting experience for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited empirical research in this specific area, existing findings suggest that understanding the experiences of autistic parents is crucial, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Hamburg, Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Parenthood, Preschool children