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Through the lens of Autism: Understanding the perceptions of families during the COVID-19 crisis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), disrupting therapy routines, education, and mental well-being. Understanding the perceptions and lived experiences of these families is crucial for guiding support mechanisms in both current and future public health emergencies. This systematic review aims to explore the emotional, behavioral, and practical challenges faced by families of individuals with ASD during the pandemic. A systematic literature review was conducted using 20 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2024. Studies were included if they addressed the effect of COVID-19 on ASD and their families. Key data, such as study objectives, country, design, participants, and findings were extracted and summarized. A thematic analysis was conducted to identify core patterns, followed by forest plot visualization to consolidate findings under major themes. The analysis revealed three dominant themes. Parental Stress and Emotional Impact heightened anxiety, burnout, and emotional distress due to increased caregiving responsibilities and loss of support; Disruption in Autism Services and Therapy Access – widespread interruption of therapies and education, with limited effectiveness of telehealth alternatives; and Behavioral and Psychological Changes in Children with ASD increased aggression, anxiety, repetitive behaviors, and sensory difficulties. These themes were consistent across diverse cultural and geographical contexts. This review highlights the multifaceted impact of the pandemic on families affected by autism. While it offers valuable insights into shared struggles, the diversity of methodologies and locations limits generalizability. Future studies should adopt longitudinal and culturally sensitive approaches to inform more resilient support frameworks in crisis contexts.

Source: Multidisciplinary Reviews

DOI: 10.31893/multirev.2025ss0220

Authors: Prateek Garg, S. RenukaJyothi, Ranjana Singh, Samir Sahu, Vishal Bankwar, Abhinav Rathour

Institutions: Chitkara University, Himachal Pradesh, Jain University, Noida International University, Siksha O Anusandhan University, Institute of Medical Sciences and Sum Hospital, Jaipur National University, Chitkara University

Language: English

Topic: COVID-19 and Mental Health

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4417119613

FWCI:

Cites: 30

Cited by:

Related to: 10