Family level processes associated with outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A scoping review

Background: Families of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face distinct challenges, and there is a need for research that attends specifically to the family. Despite the recognition of reciprocal influences in the family, research on families of individuals with ASD has tended to focus on child effects within a dyadic subsystem and not necessarily family effects. Thus, this review focuses on whether and how family processes are associated with the behavioral, social, and/or emotional development of individuals with ASD. Method: A scoping review was conducted to synthesize existing empirical literature regarding links from family functioning to individual outcomes. Family systems approaches are used along with ecological models to provide an inclusive, guiding framework for research design and interpretation of findings in family-based ASD research. Results: Results suggest that family-wide factors such as adaptability, cohesion, social support, dynamics, and functioning may be important for child development. However, the heterogeneity of the body of literature reviewed makes definitive conclusions difficult. Conclusions: Recommendations for future research, including the need for theoretically grounded, developmentally appropriate, models that highlight the unique strengths, challenges, and cultural influences of families of an individual with ASD are discussed.