Autism's Impact on Family

A new study suggests a trend toward developing hyperactivity among typically developing elementary-school-aged siblings of autistic preschoolers and supports the notion that mothers of young, autistic children experience more depression and stress than mothers with typically developing children [Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 25(1): 37-46].
While the impact on older siblings was not statistically significant, the trend may indicate the presence of symptoms associated with broader observable autism characteristics seen in previous studies, according to Laura Lee McIntyre, PhD, a professor and director of the University of Oregon school psychology program.