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Relationship between Mental Health and Communication in Parents with Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Subcontract

Research Team

Name

Principal Investigator: HyeonJin Yoon

Funding Information

Funding Agency: University of Nebraska Medical Center—Great Plains IDeA-Clinical and Translational Research Program

Subcontract from: University of Nebraska at Kearney

Award Date: Apr 14, 2025

End Date: Apr 14, 2026

Abstract

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have significant impairments in social communication and social interaction that interfere with effective management of personal, professional and academic skills. The disorder affects an estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S. 

One area gaining attention in ASD research is the role of parents and their effectiveness in providing interventions to their child with ASD. This line of research is especially pertinent due to the recent pandemic, where social distancing measures have severely impacted families access and interactions with allied health professionals. Our overall goal is to investigate parents well-being and if their mental health impacts their relationship with their child with ASD. 

In this collaboration among University of Nebraska campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney, researchers aim to assess parents' well-being focusing on emotions, anxiety, depression, stress and suicidal tendencies. Data will then be compiled to determine whether a relationship exists between the degree of overall well-being and how parents communicate with their child.


Early Childhood Education and Development, Social, Emotional and Behavioral Well-being