Family Quality of Life in Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Croatia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that may be associated with challenges affecting children and their families. This cross-sectional comparative study examined family quality of life (FQoL) among families of children with autism spectrum disorder and families of typically developing children in Croatia. The study included 185 families of children with autism spectrum disorder and 188 families of typically developing children. Families of children with autism spectrum disorder reported significantly lower FQoL across all domains compared with typically developing children (4.00 ± 0.66 vs. 4.51 ± 0.38, t = −9.14, p < 0.001, d = −0.95), with the largest differences observed in emotional wellbeing and disability-related support. Mean differences were substantial relative to the five-point response scale; however, their clinical or practical significance cannot be formally determined because no minimal clinically important difference has been established for the instrument. Internal consistency was satisfactory in both groups (Cronbach’s α = 0.72–0.95 and 0.70–0.83, respectively). FQoL domains showed moderate to strong positive intercorrelations in both groups. The observed group differences were unadjusted for potential confounders, and the cross-sectional design does not establish causality. Disability-related support findings should be interpreted cautiously because this domain addresses disability-specific needs. Direct measures of service accessibility and quality were not included. Future research should incorporate longitudinal designs, comprehensive sociodemographic and clinical data, and direct measures of service experiences.