Purpose:This study compared thein-the-momentexperiences among mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) by their household status (i.e., single versus coupled) and region of residence(i.e., regional versus major city area).
Methods:An experience sampling method was employed to collect data, and a total of 40 mothers usedan iOS device to record activity types andin-the-moment experiences for one week during school term. Mann–WhitneyUtest and multilevel analysis were conducted to compare the experiences of these mothers.
Results:The analyses found the following results: 1) mothers spent most time in childcare and least timein self-care activities; 2) coupled mothers were more likely to feel supported; 3) coupled mothers wereless likely to feel supported in domestic tasks; 4) mothers from major city were more likely to feel chal-lenged in self-care activities; and 5) mothers from major city were more likely to feel supported in productivity tasks.
Conclusion:Limited but significant differences between single and coupled mothers, as well as mothers from regional and major city areas, were found. Future research direction and service provisions were suggested.
Funding agencies: Lishman Health Foundation and the first author received the Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship for her PhD