Caregivers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Caregiver's Burden and Their Relationship to Physical Activity, Exercise Self-Efficacy, Perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers in Caregivers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

This study aims to examine the relationship between caregiving burden and physical activity, exercise self-efficacy, and perceived exercise benefits and barriers in caregivers of Caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (CwASD).The study population consisted of primary caregivers of a CwASD for at least 1 year. Caregiving burden was assessed using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale, physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short form (IPAQ-SF), exercise self-efficacy using the Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale, and perceived exercise benefit using the Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale. The relationship between caregiver burden and other parameters was analysed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Over 18 years of age,
• Caring for a CwASD for at least 1 year,
• The child with autism is 18 years old or younger,
• being an informal carer,
• The caregiver is the person with primary responsibility for the care of the CwASD in the family.

Exclusion Criteria:

• People over the age of 65,
• Those without a diagnosed chronic physical condition leading to disability,
• Those caring for more than one CwASD, another disabled person, an older adult or someone needing care