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The Power of Positivity: Predictors of Relationship Satisfaction for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

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Abstract

The current study uses the actor-partner interdependence model to examine the predictors of relationship satisfaction for mothers and fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder. Sixty-seven couples completed measures of optimism, benefit finding, coping strategies, social support, and relationship satisfaction. Results indicated that parent’s positive strengths predicted better personal relationship satisfaction. Moreover, parents’ benefit finding, use of emotional support, and perceived social support from their partner also predicted their partner’s relationship satisfaction. The results of this study highlight the importance of focusing on positive factors that can enhance relationship quality. Implications for the development of parent-focused interventions are discussed.

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Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the families of the Florida Centers for Autism and Related Disabilities for their time.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, TCU Box 298920, Fort Worth, TX, 76129, USA

    Naomi V. Ekas, Lisa Timmons & Megan Pruitt

  2. Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA

    Christine Ghilain & Michael Alessandri

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  1. Naomi V. Ekas
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  2. Lisa Timmons
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  3. Megan Pruitt
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  4. Christine Ghilain
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  5. Michael Alessandri
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Correspondence to Naomi V. Ekas.

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Ekas, N.V., Timmons, L., Pruitt, M. et al. The Power of Positivity: Predictors of Relationship Satisfaction for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 45, 1997–2007 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-015-2362-4

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