Relationship between parental autistic traits and parenting difficulties in a Japanese community sample

Previous studies have suggested an association between higher levels of parental autistic traits and negative aspects of parenting; however, the domain of autistic traits specifically associated with parenting difficulties has not been investigated yet. Moreover, it remains to be determined whether this association exists even after controlling for children’s characteristics. This study examined the relationship between each domain of parental autistic traits and parenting difficulties after controlling for children’s characteristics in a Japanese community sample. Surveys were administered to 1373 Japanese adults who were parents to children in kindergartens, nursery schools, and elementary schools. The results showed that parents with higher levels of autistic traits had more parenting difficulties. Even after controlling for children’s sex, age, and emotional/behavioral problems, paternal impaired communication and maternal poor attention switching, impaired communication, and lack of imagination were related to higher parenting difficulties, while a higher maternal level of attention to detail was associated with lower difficulties in parenting. The findings of this study highlight the importance of focusing on parental autistic traits and providing appropriate parenting support considering these traits. •Associations between autistic traits and parenting difficulties were studied.•Both mothers and fathers completed surveys about autistic traits and parenting.•Parental autistic traits were positively related to parenting difficulties.•Mothers and fathers showed differences patterns of association.•The results have implications for interventions that target parenting challenges.