Quality of Life for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder after Completing the Rehabilitation Course at Thiqar Autism Center

Abstract

Study background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a term used to characterize a category of conditions that are categorized as neurodevelopmental disorders in the DSM-5 that are distinguished by social and communication problems, stereotyped or repetitive behaviors and interests, sensory issues, and, in some cases, cognitive delays. Objectives: The main objective of this study is to assess the quality of life for children with autism spectrum disorder after completing the rehabilitation course. Methodology: A descriptive (Cross sectional) study conducted at ThiQar Autism Center. From October 1th, 2020 to April 10th, 2021. Instrument designed and developed from extensive review of related literature according to (WHO) was used to assess the quality of life of children with autism spectrum disorder after completion of the rehabilitation course. A targeted sample of (120) children with autism spectrum disorder who completed the rehabilitation course was selected. Results: The percentage of male children with autism spectrum disorder was 70% higher than females, and the larger age group than the sample was (8 years) by 30%, and the mother's educational level was reading and writing by 37.5%, and the father's educational level was reading and writing by 22.5%. With the monthly household income, most of the study sample members were (601,000 - 900,000) of the monthly income, and they constituted 47 (39.2%) of all the study sample individuals. The quality of life for children with autism spectrum disorder after completing the rehabilitation course in the domains of (physical health, psychological health, social relationship, level of independence, environment and spirituality) was of an moderate level, except for the spiritual health domain was at a low level. The statistical findings indicated that some demographic features in the study have statistically significant variations, while others have no differences. Conclusion: The study concluded that the quality of life for children with autism spectrum disorder after completing the rehabilitation course for them was at an moderate level. Recommendations: This study recommended an knowledge of positive behavior supports and how to implement them. Ability to communicate with the person with ASD.Families of children with autism spectrum disorder should give their children a lot of care.