Families of children with autism spectrum disorder: the role of family-centered care in perceived family challenges

Abstract

Using Andersen's (1968) behavioral model of health services use as a guiding conceptual framework, this study examined how receipt of family-centered care relates to the perceived family challenges for families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Data from the 2009-2010 National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs (NS-CSHCN) were analyzed for 812 parents of children with ASD. Multiple regression analyses provided substantive statistical evidence that a child's race, the adequacy of a family's insurance, and the stability of child's health care needs significantly contribute to predicting his or her receipt of family-centered care. Further results suggest a relationship between receipt of family-centered care and the perception of challenge for these families; families receiving family-centered care perceive fewer challenges and feel less unmet need for child health services. Family-centered professionals are critical in the development of policies and programs geared toward improving the health outcomes of children with ASD and their families.