A critical discourse analysis of fathers with children on the autism spectrum

Authors

  • Elvi Yunianti Department of Psychology, Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Surabaya, Indonesia
  • Nanik Nanik Department of Professional Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Surabaya, Indonesia
  • Teguh Wijaya Mulya Department of Psychology, Doctoral Program, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Surabaya, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8899-1157
https://doi.org/10.24854/jpu1158

Keywords:

autism spectrum, critical discourse analysis, culture, father, inclusive

Abstract

Families raising children on the autism spectrum experience significant parenting challenges. To provide effective support, it is important to understand the distinct roles and experiences of fathers and mothers. Existing family research has predominantly focused on mothers as primary caregivers, leaving fathers' voices underrepresented. Consequently, support for fathers is often generalized from findings based primarily on mothers’ experiences. Using a critical discourse analysis approach, this study aims to construct a discourse that uncovers the hidden social power driving marginalization in the context of caregiving and disability, experienced by fathers. Findings from interviews with 14 fathers of children on the autism spectrum reveal three dominant discourses that shape their understanding of their roles, influenced by sociocultural dynamics. These discourses include: (1) discourse on the transformation of gender roles in the family; (2) the discourse of social power: norms, stigma, and hierarchy; and (3) cultural discourse: the construction of autism in society.

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Published

2025-11-10

How to Cite

Yunianti, E., Nanik, N., & Wijaya Mulya, T. (2025). A critical discourse analysis of fathers with children on the autism spectrum. Jurnal Psikologi Ulayat, 12(2), 163–181. https://doi.org/10.24854/jpu1158

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Original Research

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