Dr Angie Cucchi, Regent’s Lecturer in Psychotherapy and Counselling, has collaborated with the Sultan Al Qaboos University Hospital in Oman to explore the quality of life (QoL) of caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disability and Typical Development.
Little research has been done in this area, especially within emerging economies such as those within the Arabian Gulf region. Dr Cucchi's investigation therefore sought to contribute to the gap in literature by comparing the health satisfaction of caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disability and Typical Development in Oman. The research also sought to explore which factors are associated with a better quality of life.
Compared to the caregivers of children with Intellectual Disability and Typical Development, caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders reported a worse quality of life and health. Interestingly, higher education – which often entails a steady employment and a higher-income –was associated with improved quality of life.
Poor quality of life appears to be pervasive in caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Oman and future interventions ought to take these findings into consideration.
Dr Cucchi's evidence-based research lays the foundation for systemic interventions and future allocation of resources. Read the study in full.
