We used a phenomenological qualitative approach to collect and analyze data from 10 married couples, who had a child with autism to investigate their perceptions of marital quality and to explore the factors that contribute to marital longevity. We investigated how participants described and interpreted their experience by using pattern coding to analyze the data. Several themes emerged from the data and indicated, in general, that having a child with autism has broad effects on relationship experiences, including some partners feeling more bonded over the care of their child. We discuss implications for clinicians, limitations, and potential future directions for additional research.
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