ABSTRACT

Autism is the most severe developmental disability. Appearing within the first three years of life, autism involves impairments in social interaction such as being aware of other people's feelings and verbal and nonverbal communication (Encyclopedia of Psychology from American Psychological Association). Its lifelong effects may affect both the individual and his or her family (Dyches et al 2004). This research determined how the family strengthens the social behavior of their autistic child. Specifically, it sought the following; the background knowledge of the significant other regarding his/her child's autism condition, the effective supports provided by the family in strengthening the social behavior of their autistic child, the difficulties experienced by the family in strengthening social behavior, the coping mechanisms utilized by the participants to adjust on the difficulties they have experienced in strengthening social behavior and the measures that proposed to help the family strengthen the social behavior of the autistic child. The research methodology used is a qualitative case study wherein the research required interviews from the guardian of the autistic child in addition to a key informant to confirm the guardian's statement. This research incorporated the nursing theories by Hildegard Pepalu, Joyce Travelbee and Callista Roy which served as as a guide to prove that effective family support can help the child manifest healthy behaviors and improve his social skills. Therefore, the study provided how finding a support system, other than household, would initiate a more positive outcome for the family. The study identified that full cooperation within a family with autism, such as providing recognition and support to the child with special disability can help improve his social behavior and can tighten family ties and improve relationships.