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Living with autism in the family can be highly stressful, and the use of short breaks ( respite care´) is a major source of social support for many such families. However, little research has been undertaken to understand how the experience of family members may differ, or to investigate why some families use short breaks while others either do not want such help or are unable to access it. In this book, David Preece describes and discusses his research undertaken in an English shire county into the experience of families that have children with this condition. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, this study identifies the significant impact of autism on family life. Differing key themes within the narratives of mothers, fathers, siblings and the children on the autism spectrum themselves are discussed. Factors associated with short breaks´ use are identified, the benefits and shortcomings of short breaks are discussed, and key quality indicators for services are suggested. This timely and interesting book will serve as a useful resource for those working with families that include children on the autism spectrum.

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David Preece, PhD undertook his doctoral research at the University of Birmingham. He works for Northamptonshire County Council, where he manages services for disabled children and their families.

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