A Qualitative Inquiry into the Lived Experiences of Parents Managing Aggression and Defiance among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder often face challenges in managing aggression and defiance, especially when professional support is limited. Although studies have examined parental stress and autism-related behaviors, limited local research has explored how Filipino parents respond to these challenges in daily caregiving. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of seven parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in selected Special Education settings in Regions XI and XII. Guided by the Double ABCX Model of Family Stress, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically. Findings revealed emotional exhaustion, public pressure, difficulty identifying triggers, inconsistent family support, and financial barriers to therapy. Parents used calm communication, redirection, routines, selective ignoring, and rewards, though some relied on reactive strategies when overwhelmed. The study emphasizes the need for parent-centered support programs involving psychoeducation, emotional regulation, behavior management training, family alignment, and accessible professional guidance.