Tag: Autism

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic disrupted essential services, posing unique challenges for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who depend on consistent, specialized support. Service providers faced unique challenges in adapting to remote delivery methods, highlighting the fragility of existing systems during crises. This study explored the experiences of ASD service providers in Qatar during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsAn online survey of 66 ASD service providers in Qatar was conducted. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and likelihood ratio tests, with qualitative responses assessed through thematic analysis.ResultsMost service providers (90.9%) worked remotely during the pandemic, with 81.8% engaging in online services. Providers reported significant skill regression in individuals with ASD. Stress levels were notably high (42.4%) and significantly associated with emotional tolls [p = 0.017, LR = 4.887], financial strains [p = 0.008, LR = 4.337], and personal challenges [p = 0.008, LR = 3.203]. Thematic analysis revealed decreased therapy effectiveness and difficulties in balancing work with family responsibilities.ConclusionThese findings suggest the importance of adaptive service delivery systems that maintain continuity of care during crises. Strengthening autism service infrastructure and developing resilient models are essential to safeguard autism support for future emergencies.

IntroductionA child’s ASD diagnosis represents a critical event for parents, often requiring them to face the loss of their child’s ideal image and reevaluate the family life projects. The aim of this study is to explore how parents retrospectively reconstruct and integrate their child’s ASD diagnosis through autobiographical memories.Methods21 parents, 16 mothers and 5 fathers, that received the ASD diagnosis within five years, were administered the Reaction to Diagnosis Interview (RDI). Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a two levels approach. The first one to explore the patterns of meanings that emerged in the whole parents’ autobiographical memories through the Reflexive Thematic Analysis. The second one is to identify patterns of resolution or non-resolution of the impact of the diagnosis.ResultsFindings show suffering and struggling as main themes and subthemes and a prevalence of unresolved diagnoses; gender differences in the way of managing the child-related care tasks, efforts, and coping strategies emerged.DiscussionIn line with literature, our findings suggest that the availability of supportive resources plays a crucial role in facilitating parents’ adjustment and integration of the ASD experience and harmonizing gender differences. They also emphasize that the impact of ASD diagnosis is not a single event but an ongoing process of meaning-making which changes with the child’s developmental path. Our findings highlight the need for cognitive and emotional reconstruction and reframing of parents’ autobiographical memories. These processes play a kay role in shaping how the diagnosis experience is integrated into one’s narrative identity, creating opportunities for transforming the meaning of the remembered experience.