Parent and Professional Experiences Supporting African-American Children with Autism

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Child Psychology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis is reliable by age 2.
• African-American children experience diagnostic and service access delays compared to European-American children.
• Existing research indicates significant disparities in ASD identification and care for minority populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences and perceptions of African-American parents of children with ASD.
• To investigate the perspectives of professionals supporting African-American children with ASD.
• To identify barriers and facilitators impacting early diagnosis and service access for African-American children with ASD.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study design.
• Exploration of perceptions and experiences through interviews.
• Inclusion of African-American parents and healthcare/educational professionals.

Main Results:

• Few facilitators for accessing ASD services were identified by participants.
• Parents and professionals perceived similar barriers and facilitators to early diagnosis and service access.
• Disparities in timely diagnosis and service initiation persist for African-American children.

Conclusions:

• Addressing perceived barriers is crucial for equitable ASD care.
• Enhanced collaboration between families, healthcare providers, and educators is needed.
• Interventions should focus on improving early identification and timely access to services for African-American children with ASD.