Karen J. Ishler, PhD (GRS '13)
Senior Research Associate
Office of Educational Outcome Assessment
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences
Areas of focus: Family relationships, caregiving and health
Amidst the daily realities of caregiving for autistic adolescents and young adults, it's easy for the challenges to take center stage. But for Karen Ishler and the members of her research team, it's the quiet, hopeful moments that deserve more attention.
In a recent article, "'Glimmers of hope and good things': Positive aspects of caregiving to autistic adolescents and young adults," the team reported on their breakthrough study that adopted a more novel approach to caregiving research.
The study, which involved interviews with 174 caregivers, combined both quantitative and qualitative approaches to better understand what makes caregiving feel rewarding. The team found that caregivers who received more help and support from their autistic youth reported more positive experiences. Many also spoke about the deep relationships they'd formed, their own personal growth and the pride that comes from seeing their children succeed in big and small ways.
"These reflections tell us there's more to the story than stress and sacrifice," Ishler said. "There's strength, there's connection and there's love."
Conducting this kind of research hasn't always been easy. After pilot funding from the Mt. Sinai Health Foundation ended, the colleagues had to get creative-they established a student-led research practicum that has not only advanced the work, but has allowed the team to mentor emerging scholars.
Central to their success is CWRU's supportive environment, notably the Program for Autism Education and Research (PAER), which fosters partnerships with local hospitals, and local community groups such as Milestones Autism Resources. These collaborations amplify the group's research impact and ensure their findings translate into tangible support for caregivers and autistic individuals.
"By elevating the voices of caregivers and expanding our understanding of their experiences, we aim to foster resilience and enhance well-being across the lifespan," Ishler concluded. "This research journey is driven by a dedication to equity and empowerment within caregiving communities."
Research Team:
Kristen Berg (GRS '19), assistant professor, School of Medicine
Karen Ishler (GRS '13), senior research associate, Mandel School
Carina Montoya, doctoral student, Mandel School
Rita Obeid, senior instructor, College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Psychological Sciences
Julie Payner (MSW '25), assistant director of financial aid, Mandel School
