How can I help my Autistic son be more appreciative

[RaquelMonique]

I’m hurt and frustrated. I went off on my 17 year old and I probably shouldn’t have, but his lack of empathy got to me today.

I have a 17 year old high functioning and meets the spectrum due to his social disadvantages. He drives and today his car broke down. Long story short, his dad does less than the minimum, literally. My son only sees him 2-3 weekends a month but I handle ALL responsibilities; school, IeP meetings, appointments, dances, haircuts, license & car fees, job applications, and more. My son let his dad know his car broke down, before I even knew, and his dad didn’t do anything. Granted, he called my husband And he was on his way. But I wish my son either could see that his dad doesn’t do anything or would ask/expect him to do something. He didn’t even offer or cal back to make sure my son would make it to school the next day

My sons dad is deceiving. He shows my son his garnished paycheck but he also has another child he pays for and I’m lucky if I see 75 a month (the order is for more but he doesn’t actually pay it. It’s just arrears).

It hurts that the burden is always on me. My son says he knows I do everything for him. But he still doesn’t treat/respect me like he does his dad.

[anirush]

It is hard to have a parent who is dysfunctional and doesn't step up to the plate. My grandson's bio dad is on and off drugs and has never done anything for the boys. Not even a birthday card. I have just tried to get them to accept that he is not able to do anything and it is not their fault.

Their mother is not the most stable right now either since having a baby.

Counseling has really helped me to deal with things get them in perspective. It doesn't fix the problem but at least I'm able to take a deep breath and go on.