This study examined the clinical levels of depression and stress associated with raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). A range of factors, such as aberrant and challenging behaviors, measures of severity of ASD, and increasing child care responsibilities contribute to paternal stress. In addition fathers may experience high levels of stress and depression when dealing with their child's health services and doubts in fulfilling their obligations to be a 'good father. The general problem in this phenomenological study was that fathers of children with ASD experienced higher levels of stress and depression and may be at risk for poor psychological wellbeing. Little research exists that documents paternal stress levels and depression, although many studies have been conducted on the effects of parenting a child with ASD on maternal mental health. Factors related to stress are less researched in the lived experience of fathers of children with ASD. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe parental stress and depression in a sample of fathers living children with ASD. Data collection involved objective and active statements of fathers of children with ASD. Participants in this study were fathers of children with ASD who lived with their child or children at least 70% of the time. Data were analyzed on Reponses to each open- ended questions and the Parental Stress Scale and Depression Level Scale to look across all the participants and their replies to identify consistencies and differences. Using NVivo software, themes, and patterns were identified by concepts, terminology and phrases used by the participants. The key theme were that fathers in seeking to cope with stress and depression distinguishes their child's identity from the child's deficits so that they can see positive traits; Psychological acceptance helped fathers to mediate the problems and difficulties caused by children with autism such as distress and other mental health issues. However the biggest fear was that of the future. Trying to meet the needs of children with autism increases the depression, anxiety and other psychological distress. Findings from this study suggest that further research is necessary to support the needs of fathers of children with ASD. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]