Faculty Collaboration Database

"No one could calm him down": Mothers' experience of autism diagnosis and obtainment of resources in an urban public school district. Fam Syst Health 2020 Sep;38(3):255-264

Date

09/22/2020

Pubmed ID

32955283

DOI

10.1037/fsh0000527

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-85091469806 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   2 Citations

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of accessing autism diagnosis and resources in a Midwest urban public school district for diverse mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. Method: We employed thematic analysis using narrative inquiry methodology to analyze the data from 9 mothers (n = 5 African American, n = 2 Hispanic, and n = 2 White) who participated in a focus group. Results: Three themes were identified by the researchers: (a) late medical diagnosis (subthemes: problems that parents didn't perceive as signs of autism spectrum disorder, making comparisons to other siblings or children), (b) negative communication experiences (subthemes: husband and wife, parent and educational professionals), and (c) coping strategies (subthemes: resources, prayer). Discussion: The mothers' narratives indicated a strong need for advocacy and parent-school partnership. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

Author List

Johnson N, Sangasy P, Robinson K

Author

Norah Johnson PhD Assistant Professor in the College ofnursing department at Marquette University

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adaptation, Psychological
Adult
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Child
Female
Health Services Accessibility
Humans
Male
Mothers
Schools
Urban Population