Skip to main content

Understanding the Help-Seeking Experiences of Asian American Caregivers of Children with Autism: A Qualitative Study

Principal Investigator(s):

Amani Khalil

Grant Type:

Graduate Research

Funding:

2,000


Organization:

Purdue University

Year Awarded:

2022

Status:

In Progress


Location:

West Lafayette, Indiana

Topics:

Behavior, Emotions, Mental Health; Early Intervention


Abstract

Despite the recent emphasis on the importance of early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), racial-ethnic minority children receive a median delay of 6 months receiving a diagnosis, compared to their white counterpart (CDC, 2020). This further delays early intervention for racial-ethnic minority children with ASD (Crais & Watson, 2014). However, research is sparse on experiences of racial ethnic Parents of Children of Autism (PCA), who may face added individual and systematic barriers in helping seeking on behalf of their children (Bogenschutz, 2014). However, compared to any other racial groups, Asian American (AA) children are least likely to receive services to meet their developmental needs, such as speech, occupational, or behavioral therapies (Data Resource Center for Child and Adolescent Health, 2020) To fill this gap in research, the objective of the proposed study is to address Asian American PCA’s perceived accessibility, acceptability, availability and appropriateness in accessing the healthcare system from a qualitative, emic approach. The proposed study will be guided by thematic analysis qualitative method. This study will elucidate the barriers to access in ASD treatment that Asian American PCA face. Additionally, findings may inform both educational and healthcare policy to improve treatment access for Asian American children with ASD.