Challenges in nurturing HFASD teens: Emotional crises and expectations of mothers in Malaysia

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Published: Nov 30, 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21580/pjpp.v8i2.17078
Keywords:
adolescents, high-functioning autism spectrum disorder, mothers, nurturing, teenager

Main Article Content

Shima Dyana Mohd Fazree
Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8278-2410
Nur Saadah Mohamad Aun
Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2169-633X
Siti Marziah Zakaria
Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7273-8651
Abdul Rahman Ahmad Badayai
Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6374-3528
Tuti Iryani Mohd Daud
Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9780-1191
Idayu Badilla Idris
Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7238-2904

Abstract

The transition to young adulthood brings distinctive challenges for high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) children and their families, especially post-formal education. This qualitative case study research aims to explore hurdles faced by mothers navigating HFASD adolescents. The result shows that financial strain, stigma, and loneliness loom large, compounded by emotional crises tied to uncertainty and stress about their children's future. Mothers advocate for multiple work opportunities and independence, underscoring a notable gap between HFASD teens' needs, available services, and community resources. The study enlightened mothers and inspired proactive measures, emphasizing the imperative for a collective, interdisciplinary effort to align services comprehensively—addressing residential, employment, and social aspects—to enhance the quality of life for HFASD individuals.

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How to Cite
Mohd Fazree, S. D., Aun, N. S. M., Zakaria, S. M., Badayai, A. R. A., Daud, T. I. M., & Idris, I. B. (2023). Challenges in nurturing HFASD teens: Emotional crises and expectations of mothers in Malaysia. Psikohumaniora: Jurnal Penelitian Psikologi, 8(2), 211–226. https://doi.org/10.21580/pjpp.v8i2.17078
Issue
Vol. 8 No. 2 (2023)
Section
Articles

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Author Biographies

Shima Dyana Mohd Fazree, Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor

PhD candidate in Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-Being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, The National University of Malaysia

Nur Saadah Mohamad Aun, Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor

Senior Lecturer in Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-Being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, The National University of Malaysia.

Email - Google Scholar

Siti Marziah Zakaria, Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor

Senior Lecturer in Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-Being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, The National University of Malaysia

Abdul Rahman Ahmad Badayai, Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor

Senior Lecturer in Centre for Research in Psychology and Human Well-Being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, The National University of Malaysia

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