As her son's mysterious illness pitched the Callahans into repeated battles with doctors, the school system, and each other, a solid and loving relationship was destroyed by the pressure. Another poignant portrait of autism's effects on the family is Family Pictures , a novel by Sue Miller. Later made into a very affecting TV movie, Family Pictures chronicles the dramatic impact of an autistic son on his affluent Northeastern family. My marriage has definitely suffered, also my relationship with my older daughters. I find it difficult to keep it all in perspective.
Every family is different, but there are a few problems that many have in common.
Discipline Perhaps the number one problem in any family with children is differences of opinion about what constitutes appropriate discipline. These are only compounded when a child has a neuropsychiatric disability. The behavior problems are bigger, and solving them is more difficult. Conflicts between parents become more likely. Grandparents and friends haven't a clue.