The autistic child and family functioning: a developmental-family systems perspective.

Autism is a severe, long-term developmental disorder that potentially has substantial influence on different aspects of the family system. Principles from family-systems theory are considered as they relate to the autistic child within the family. A selective and critical review is presented of research findings on the influence of the autistic child on the functioning and interactions of family members, including parents, siblings, and the family as a whole. Research findings are also reviewed on resources associated with successful family adaptation to the autistic child. Suggestions are offered for improved research to assess the relationship between certain child variables and measures of family functioning.