Exploring job challenges and satisfaction among ASD specialists: An exploratory qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Special Education
• Rehabilitation Services

Background:

• Rising autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence suggests increased demand for rehabilitation services.
• This surge may lead to heavier caseloads and complex roles for ASD specialists.
• Understanding specialists' experiences is crucial for developing effective support strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively examine the lived experiences of ASD specialists.
• To identify factors influencing job satisfaction and challenges faced by ASD specialists.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological approach utilizing semi-structured interviews with nine ASD specialists.
• Data collected through in-person and remote interviews, transcribed verbatim.
• Thematic analysis performed using MAXQDA software to identify key themes.

Main Results:

• Four major themes emerged: Job Retention (26%), Mental Health and Self-Care Strategies (24%), Professional Competencies (29%), and Professional Challenges (21%).
• Analysis revealed key motivations, skills, and stressors impacting specialists.
• Word frequency analysis highlighted significant terms related to child interaction and specialist interests.

Conclusions:

• Strong self-care strategies and professional competencies significantly improve job retention and reduce challenges for ASD specialists.
• Targeted interventions, including self-care programs and competency training, are vital for enhancing job satisfaction and care quality.
• Future research should focus on developing validated measurement tools and support programs for ASD specialists.