Support group for fathers specifically

Posted by -‐------ @asdmom, Jun 3 11:29am

Im an OT working in a critical care access hospital in Iowa. I am curious as to whether or not anyone knows of a virtual support group specifically for fathers? A couple of my lil kiddos who are every bit as vested and active in their childrens care as the mothers; yet feel a sense of not belonging in "regular" autism support groups- as they are all so dominated by women. And then of course being father vs. mother is a different perspective with different emotions involved- different concerns etc... I've done a google search- saw that Drexel has a support group. I'm in Iowa- so contacted the Autism Society of Iowa. There was another site that actually charged to be a member of a group. I have 2 boys with ASD and know how isolating it can be; and dont want these fathers to feel that same isolation.
Any ideas/input would be appreciated. I can most certainly see how the "regular" groups would be more biased towards women. Of course not ALL fathers are rather stand-offish when it comes to their autistic children; but in my experience they are the majority. So women automatically think that fathers dont put in the same amount of emotional/physical energy as the mothers. And of course men are much less likely to reach out for support to begin with.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Autism (ASD) Support Group.

@asdmom Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect.

Having a child on the autism spectrum is a challenge, no matter whether you are the mom or dad, isn't it? Finding support can be difficult, and styles of communication can differ so much. Many thanks to @dlydailyhope for that list of potential support groups! I am looking forward to hearing if the fathers you are advocating for end up finding a group or two to relate to, and will report here.

It may seem like many groups are more female oriented/led/dominated. Everyone has a voice, and having the male perspective is important, if nothing else for the feedback. Each parent has a true vested interest in making sure they are doing the best they can for the family/child/partnership and deserve a place to be heard, get information, and share experiences. Having a child on the spectrum is a learning curve, especially since that spectrum is pretty danged wide-ranging.
Ginger

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