A recent study uncovered concerning results about the psychological effects of terrorism on autistic children and their parents in the aftermath of Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023. Within 30 days of the attack, both autistic and non-autistic children displayed significant symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Autistic children exhibited a more pronounced response, and their parents experienced higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. This emphasizes the pressing need for specialized mental health services for these families. These initial findings underline the critical necessity for immediate and ongoing mental health support for all children and parents affected by the conflict.
In the first-ever study of autistic children and their parents in the context of war, Dr. Judah Koller from the Seymour Fox School of Education at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and his team, led by doctoral student Shir Rozenblat, found alarming preliminary findings on the impact of terrorism and war on this population. The study, which focuses on the psychological aftermath of Hamas’ October 7th, 2023 attack on Israel, underscores the urgent need for tailored support services for autistic children and their families during times of conflict.
Within 30 days of the attack, both autistic and non-autistic Israeli children displayed significant post-traumatic stress symptoms. Autistic children showed more severe symptoms, indicating their increased vulnerability. Parents of autistic children also reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to parents of non-autistic children. These levels were 2-4 times higher than those reported by a separate group of parents of autistic children assessed before the war in a study conducted by the Azrieli National Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopment Research at Ben Gurion University.
“Autistic children’s dependence on routine and predictability is significantly disrupted during terrorist attacks and warfare, which appears to heighten their stress responses,” said Dr. Koller. “Parenting a child during wartime is a universal challenge, but our findings indicate that autistic children and their parents need targeted mental health support that considers their unique characteristics.”
The study used online questionnaires filled out by caregivers to quickly and efficiently collect data from a large and diverse population. The researchers recognize that the findings may not be widely applicable due to the limited sample size and specific characteristics of the participants. However, they highlight the significance of these initial results as an essential first stage in a year-long longitudinal study.
The research team has finished gathering data for a comprehensive study that uses a variety of methods and includes a broader range of both autistic and non-autistic children, as well as their parents. The study, done in collaboration with Dr. Yonat Rum from the School of Education, involves detailed examinations of parental post-traumatic stress and resilience, as well as qualitative data on families’ experiences. Dr. Koller explained, “Our aim is to gain a thorough understanding of the ongoing impact of war on these vulnerable groups and to advocate for the necessary support services.”
These findings emphasize the urgent and ongoing need for mental health support for children and parents impacted by the conflict. The study urges policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize the unique needs of autistic children and their families, not just in Israel but in conflict-affected areas around the globe. This project is a joint effort involving ALUT, the Israeli Society for Autistic Children and Adults, Bar-Ilan University, and Ben-Gurion University.