Treating Couples Raising Children on the Autism Spectrum: A Marriage-Friendly Approach

Available research demonstrates that autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affect couples in a variety of different ways. Some partners draw closer to one another through the experience of caring for a child on the autism spectrum while others experience relationship dissatisfaction, separation, and divorce. Yet other research reveals that many couples raising children with ASDs may experience an initial dip in relationship satisfaction but, after adjusting to a new way of life and developing new expectations for their children, are later able to bond in novel ways. Thus, a marriage-friendly approach to therapy, which focuses on helping partners remain committed to each other through the trials and tribulations of life, may allow these couples to work through the difficulties of raising children on the autism spectrum without resorting to separation or divorce. Ethical implications of a marriage-friendly approach to therapy with couples raising children with ASDs are also considered.