What Is the Divorce Rate for Families With Autism in the U.S.?

It’s easy to believe scary statistics when you’re exhausted and just trying to do your best as a parent. The oft-quoted “80% divorce rate” among autism families is one of those myths that refuses to die.

But the truth is much more comforting. While families raising children with autism face unique challenges, research shows most marriages survive—and many even grow stronger. Here’s what the data from the U.S. actually reveals.

What the Research Actually Shows

Several studies in the United States have explored the divorce rate among parents of children with autism. While results vary, most show that divorce rates are somewhat higher than those in families without a child on the spectrum—but not nearly as extreme as popular myths suggest.

Key Findings from U.S. Studies

A major study published in the Journal of Family Psychology (2010) compared nearly 400 families with a child with autism to families without disabilities. It found that about 23.5% of the autism group had divorced, compared to 13.8% in the control group.

That’s an increase, yes—but it’s far from the 80% figure that’s often quoted.

Another long-term U.S. study that followed families for almost three decades found that by the time the child reached age 30, around 36% of the families had experienced divorce. The risk was higher early in childhood but continued at a steady rate into adulthood.

In contrast, parents of neurotypical children saw divorce risk decline as their children grew older. This suggests that families of individuals with autism may face ongoing stressors that persist beyond the early childhood years.

Why the “80% Divorce Rate” Myth Persists

Despite the research, the “80% divorce” myth refuses to die. It’s been repeated in articles, documentaries, and even professional talks. But when you trace it back, there’s no credible study supporting it.

Why the Number Stuck Around

• It’s emotionally powerful – Extreme numbers grab attention and empathy.
• It’s based on anecdotes, not data – Personal stories of family strain spread faster than academic findings.
• It confuses divorce with marital stress – Many families experience high stress or temporary separation, but that doesn’t always lead to divorce.
• Early, small studies were misinterpreted – Some early surveys used small or biased samples that didn’t reflect the general population.

In reality, the best data we have shows divorce rates between roughly 23% and 36%, depending on the study and the family’s circumstances.

What Factors Increase Divorce Risk

Marriage in any family can face challenges, but the daily demands of supporting a child with autism often add layers of stress. That said, understanding these factors helps families build resilience.

Common Stressors for Parents of Children With Autism

• Behavioral challenges – Managing meltdowns, self-stimulatory behavior, or communication difficulties can create fatigue and tension.
• Financial strain – Costs of autism therapy, specialized education, and reduced work hours can put pressure on household finances.
• Caregiver burnout – Many parents carry a heavy emotional load, especially if respite care or extended family support is limited.
• Isolation – Couples who lack community support or time together may feel disconnected over time.
• Life-course pressures – Some studies show that younger maternal age and later birth order increase stress risk.

Factors That Help Protect Marriages

Not all families with autism experience marital strain—in fact, many grow stronger. Protective factors include:

• Open, honest communication
• Shared caregiving responsibilities
• Emotional and practical support networks
• Access to professional help and therapy services
• Realistic expectations and flexibility

One study even found that parents who developed shared coping strategies—like humor, teamwork, and dividing responsibilities—were more likely to stay together long-term.

Why Ongoing Support Matters

The presence of stress doesn’t doom a marriage. What makes the difference is support—for both the child and the parents. Early intervention, therapy, and parent guidance can dramatically reduce daily stress and improve family functioning.