Raising children on the autism spectrum: The influence of John Gottman\u27s findings on the relationship between parental stress and relationship satisfaction

The purpose of this study was to expand on the current research and maintain a strengths based approach to relationship satisfaction for parents raising children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Previous research has demonstrated a higher divorce rate, and lower rate of relationship satisfaction for parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, however much of this research fails to account for the variability within the specified population. John Gottman and his colleagues have identified a number of principles, within the general population that are present in couples with the most successful and long lasting of relationships. The purpose of the present research is attempt to identify if these strengths based principles can be similarly applied to a population of individuals raising children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Analysis of data collected from 51 participants in a romantic relationship of at least six months, who were care taking for one or more children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder partially supported the idea that John Gottman\u27s principles, developed in the general population, are relevant and can be applied to a population of individuals raising a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder