THE PARENTS OF THE CHILD WITH AUTISM

Autism has been at the centre of attention for clinicians and researchers since Kanner described the syndrome in 1943. No evidence has been emerged for the suggested psychogenic eti ology of autism. Evidence has shown that autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a strong genetic component. Having a child with autism is felt as a catastrophic event by many parents. The parents trying to cope with the special needs and problems of the child frequently experience high levels of stress and may get into a chronic state of depression and need psychological support and guidance on how to manage the child. Trying to find resources in the community for an adequate therapeutic program may be a frustrating experi ence.