The Experiences of Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Searching for Balance Between Work and Family Life

Abstract

It is undeniable that mothers primarily undertake the daily life needs, care, and education processes of their children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Working mothers fulfill their children's responsibilities as well as other responsibilities in family life. Working mothers’ ability to establish a balance between their family lives, with all the responsibilities this includes, and work life significantly affects their ability to continue their lives. This study aims to investigate the working mothers’ experiences in maintaining balance between their work and family lives. This research is based on phenomenological design, which is a qualitative research method.

Mothers' experiences of balancing work and family life are a phenomenon that needs to be clarified. Reflecting on this phenomenon through mothers’ discourses will reveal 'what' and 'how' they experience this process. The participants of the study are five working mothers of children with ASD who are trained in special education and rehabilitation centers in the central districts of Gaziantep. Research data was obtained using a semi-structured interview technique. The data was analyzed using the categories developed based on pre determined codes in the content analysis. The results of the study show that working mothers of children with ASD had a pessimistic perception of their work and family life experiences, where they experienced emotional confusion, and felt they had insufficient support. Because parents of children with ASD are not informed about their legal rights, they cannot benefit from these rights both in the private and the public sector. Evaluation of the research findings suggests training can be offered to working mothers, in learning about and defending their legal rights, and to managers in the institutions that deal with these parents’ legal rights applications.