Abstract
This phenomenological study examined the relationships between four mothers and their children with autism after starting expressive writing. Researchers identified the following four themes: understanding strengthens the mother-child relationship, recognizing greater insight into the child, quality of life through improved expression, and changes in mothers’ perspectives on their child’s identity.
Primary Author and Speaker: John A. Damiao
Additional Authors and Speakers: Leticia Agyapong, Sukhmjot Kaur, Lorraine Hernandez, Jessica Johnson, Catherine Cavaliere
This phenomenological research study examined the relationships between four mothers and their children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) after starting expressive writing. An occupational therapy (OT) practitioner from one of the organizations in this study has described expressive writing as “using a visual medium in order to allow an individual to convey social, communicative, and or emotional freedom in written form. Expressive writing for children and young adults with ASD enables a more fluid, emotional and open communication.” The purpose of this study is to explore the impact that expressive writing can have on mother-child dyads. Four mothers from New York and Connecticut of children ages 12-17 were recruited by an OT practitioner. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews via video calls conducted by the OT practitioner. The transcribed interviews were analyzed and researchers identified the following four themes: (1) understanding strengthens the mother-child relationship, (2) recognizing greater insight of the child, (3) quality of life through improved expression, and (4) changes in mother’s perspectives on their child’s identity. The mothers described expressive writing provided their children with a sense of value and fulfillment. Recognizing the importance and value of expressive writing is critical for professionals who work with children with ASD. Expressive writing can increase quality of life, create a sense of belonging and improve overall well-being for families and children with ASD.
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