Exploring the parenting experiences of fathers with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

This study aimed to gain insight into the parenting experiences of fathers with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Nine fathers with a formal diagnosis of ASD were recruited from NHS services and third sector organisations. Semi-structured interviews explored their experiences of parenting and their relationship with their child(ren). A qualitative methodology, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), was used to analyse the data. The findings enable a better understanding of the experiences of fathers with ASD and in turn provide suggestions on how to support this group of individuals.