Pengalaman Hidup Ibu dalam Mengasuh Anak Autism Spectrum Disorder di Kota Medan: Studi Fenomenologi

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a pervasive developmental disorder in social interaction, communication and behavior. The presence of an autistic child can be a source of stress for the mother as the system. This research aims to explore the life experience of mothers in caring for children with autism spectrum disorder in Medan. The research uses qualitative research design with phenomenological study approach. The research data are collected using in-depth interview with IO mothers who have children with autism aged 7 to J2 years. The research participants are mothers who ore the main caregivers of children with autism who are determined through purposive sampling. The data are collected in the form of recorded interviews and field nots which then are analyzed by applying the Van Manen technique. 7 themes are found In this research. Teh research result describe the response of the mother when the child is diagnosed with autism, the problems experienced by the mother during the care of the child with autism. The form of support received by the mother, the trigger for the child's tantrum, how to manage a child's tantrum. The mother's expectations of the child and changes in the child after therapy. The mothers have a deep understanding In caring for a child with autism spectrum disorder. They face a variety of problems such as economic problems, family problems and facing the stigma of society. Despite this predicament, they also show remarkable resilience and and develop various strategies to overcome the problem.