The Influence of Family Structure on the Social Behavior of Children with Autism: Based on the Family System Theory

Abstract

Changes in family structure have a significant impact on the social development of children with autism (ASD), but current research has mostly focused on the perspectives of parents and siblings, lacking in-depth exploration from the perspective of children with ASD themselves. Based on family systems theory and using qualitative research methods, this study focused on three 5-12-year-old ASD children and their nuclear families (parents and two children) who were the eldest children in the family at Y Rehabilitation Institution in Shanxi Province. Through self-made interview Outlines, in-depth conversations were conducted with parents and responsible teachers. Combined with classroom performance, assessment records and family interaction observations of children with ASD, the mechanism by which changes in family structure (the birth of siblings) affect the social behavior of older children with ASD. The results showed that the birth of A second child had a differentiated impact on older children with ASD: A and C showed positive changes such as active sharing and improved language expression; B showed problems such as social withdrawal due to insufficient family guidance. Family interaction guidance and attention distribution are key influencing factors. This study fills the gap in existing research exploring the impact of changes in family structure from the perspective of children with ASD, providing a practical reference for understanding the developmental needs of children with ASD in multi-child families and theoretical support for formulating targeted education and intervention strategies for multi-child autistic families. However, the study has limitations such as a small sample size and a lack of in-depth analysis of potential influencing factors such as family economic conditions. In the future, the sample size can be expanded and more variables can be included for in-depth research.