Impact of employee benefits on families with children with autism spectrum disorders

Autism. 2016 Jul;20(5):616-22. doi: 10.1177/1362361315598891. Epub 2015 Sep 4.

Abstract

The objectives of this study are to evaluate the employee benefits parents of children with autism spectrum disorders have, how benefits are used, work change, and job satisfaction. We conducted a cross-sectional mailed survey study of 435 families with children with autism spectrum disorders residing in the United States. We received 161 surveys for a response rate of 37%. Families reported using the following benefits: 39% paid family leave, 19% unpaid family leave, 91% flexible work arrangements, and 86% telecommuting. Of respondents, 43% reported stopping work, cutting down on hours worked, or changing jobs because of their child's condition. Having paid family leave was a positive predictor for job satisfaction. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders have an interest and need for alternative work arrangements.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorders; family functioning and support; policy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / psychology*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Employment / psychology*
  • Employment / statistics & numerical data
  • Family / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Job Satisfaction
  • Male
  • Parents / psychology
  • Personnel Turnover / statistics & numerical data
  • Salaries and Fringe Benefits / statistics & numerical data*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Telecommunications
  • United States
  • Workplace / psychology*
  • Workplace / statistics & numerical data