Due to its specificity, complexity and dynamics of changes, the topic of autism is a constant area of interest for researchers around the world. The analysis of the discussed issue applies not only to children on the spectrum, but also to their parents, siblings and the entire family. The parents' maturing to a new life situation related to the diagnosis, care and upbringing of a child with ASD is marked by a kind of mourning.However, how parents will cope with the situation depends on the family's potential and social support.
The aim of the research is a qualitative analysis of the opinions of parents of children with ASD on the functioning of the family, maturation in tolerance and acceptance of behaviors related to the autism spectrum, and a parental assessment of the activities of the Polish educational, therapeutic and assistance system.
The research results and conclusions obtained on their basis constitute an encouragement for further analysis of the discussed issue, deepening specialist knowledge in the presented field, as well as proposals for systemic solutions in the aspect of early support for the development of young children.