Systematic review of measures and interventions for caregiver adjustment to child autism diagnosis.
Published May 9, 2026
A systematic review of measures and interventions related to caregiver adjustment after a child’s autism diagnosis.
This systematic review examined measures and interventions related to caregiver adjustment after a child’s autism diagnosis. It included 78 articles, identified 42 measures, and found eight interventions, with four reporting significant improvement.
The evidence is preliminary and varied: definitions and measurement approaches differed, and the review does not establish one best intervention. “Adjustment” should be understood neutrally; families do not need to respond to a diagnosis in any prescribed way.
The review identifies evidence gaps, including autistic caregivers, fathers, and caregivers of adults. Support should be offered in ways that respect each family’s needs and values.
Source: Clark-Whitney E, et al. “Systematic Review of Measures and Interventions for Caregiver Adjustment to Child Autism Diagnosis.” Autism. 2026;30(4):866–883. https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613251407305 (PMID: 41518230; PROSPERO CRD42023463196).
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