Culturally Adapting an Occupational Therapy Intervention for Black American Autistic Communities

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Autism intervention
• Cultural adaptation

Background:

• Ayres Sensory Integration® is an evidence-based intervention for autistic children.
• There is a lack of culturally responsive adaptations for Black American autistic children and their families.

Purpose of the Study:

• To culturally adapt an occupational therapy intervention for Black American families.
• To address challenges and incorporate supports for accessing and engaging in occupational therapy services.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study using focus groups and interviews conducted via Zoom.
• Convenience sampling included 12 Black American parents, caregivers, cultural experts, and occupational therapy practitioners.
• Researcher triangulation and member-checking surveys ensured trustworthiness of findings.

Main Results:

• Five themes identified barriers and eight themes identified supports for accessing occupational therapy services.
• Key themes included the need for cultural humility and responsive practices from practitioners.
• Strategies for engaging families and incorporating their culture into therapy were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully demonstrated the process of culturally adapting an occupational therapy intervention.
• The adaptation incorporated insights from parents, caregivers, cultural experts, and practitioners.
• The adapted intervention aims to guide practitioners in providing more culturally responsive and collaborative care for Black American families.