Caretakers of ASD children. (c2017)

Abstract

Autism has become one of the most widespread childhood disorders. It is a development disability that affects verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction. This study was motivated by a pursuit to investigate the attitudes of Lebanese parents of autistic children when their child is diagnosed with autism. It aims at revealing parents’ knowledge about early intervention and discovering the challenges and difficulties these parents face and what they recommend for the future. This study followed the qualitative study using statistics; quantitative data was collected from 19 participating parents who were surveyed in different early intervention centers in Lebanon. Qualitative data was collected using semi-structured interviews with three special educators in different centers for students with special needs as well as content analysis of three different booklets about Autism from the Ministry of Social Affairs. Findings indicate that parents face challenges with their autistic child such as behavioral and communication problems and lack of social skills. The results of this study are compatible with similar research conducted in the West. Having more awareness campaigns about autism and offering early intervention services in Lebanon are recommended. Further research on the topic is suggested.