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

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21580/pjpp.v8i2.17078

Keywords:

adolescents, high-functioning autism spectrum disorder, mothers, nurturing, teenager

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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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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Published

2023-11-30

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)

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