Emotional and behavioural difficulties including depression, anxiety, and hyperactivity are elevated in autistic children (AC). Family processes are associated with these difficulties, but
the direction of influence is uncertain. We searched seven bibliographic databases for prospective, quantitative studies on the impact of family processes of a psychological nature
on the later well-being of AC, across a minimum of six months. Eligible studies were extracted following PRISMA guidelines and narratively synthesised. Seventeen studies were reviewed. Sixteen studies found predictive effects for at least one family process on later
well-being. Parenting stress and aspects of the parent-child relationship yielded most robust associations. Weaker support was found for parent mental health. Clinical and research
implications are discussed