Stressors and Family Supports: Families with Children Using Augmentative & Alternative Communication Technology

Abstract

A statewide survey was conducted in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Center of Harrisburg to identify the stressors and family supports of 59 families with young children between the ages of 3 and 12 years who use AAC technology and technology services. Descriptive statistics and correlations were used to analyze the data. Parenting Stress Index results revealed both fathers and mothers perceived the child-related variables of acceptance and demandingness as stressful. Results revealed differences for parent-related variables for mothers and fathers. Data derived from the Family Support Scale revealed significant differences for mothers and fathers with regard to the helpfulness of social supports. Implications for family-centered intervention and future research are discussed.