This study addresses the underrepresentation of fathers in autism research, particularly
those with adult-aged autistic offspring. The authors explored the lifelong experiences
and interpretations of fathers raising their autistic sons. Ten Hungarian fathers
participated in a one-time semi-structured interview. Interpretative phenomenological
analysis revealed four Group Experience Themes: ‘A revolving cycle around losing and
regaining control’, ‘Crossing boundaries: accepting and adapting’, ‘Being in the world
as a father: experiences of eternality and liminality’, and ‘Personal growth through
pervading experience’. The findings highlight unique fatherhood experiences and offer
implications for professionals and service providers.
