ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on families of children with developmental disabilities, in particular children with intellectual disabilities (ID) because these families have been subjects of a substantial body of research on stress, coping, and resilience. Further, recent reviews and meta-analyses have made available information about evidence-based practices that have been effective in helping to promote resilience in these families. The chapter examines risk and resilience in families of children with three other kinds of disabilities: autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioral and emotional disorders. As reported by Higgins, Bailey, and Pearce, stress associated with ASD "impacts on most aspects of families' lives, including recreation activities, housekeeping, finances, emotional and mental health of caregivers, marital relationships, physical health of family members, sibling relations and relationships with extended family, friends, and neighbours". Early and Poertner found evidence that "emotional support" given by spouses, family, and friends was the helpful factor most valued by families of children with emotional disorders.
