Assessing the diagnostic experiences and family needs of parents with autistic children
Date
2002
Authors
Siklos, Susan
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Abstract
Though no studies have been conducted in Canada, there are studies suggesting that parents of children with autism experience significant hardships obtaining a diagnosis for their child. Parents were given four questionnaires: a diagnostic survey, providing information on parents' experiences obtaining a diagnosis for their child; the Family Needs Questionnaire, which provided information on what needs parents feel are important, and which of these needs are being met; a questionnaire that assessed autistic symptomatology; and finally, a demographics questionnaire. Results indicate that parents of autistic children experience significant difficulties obtaining a diagnosis for their child, and report greater dissatisfaction with the diagnostic process and services received, as compared to parents of children with Down syndrome. The groups did not differ in the number of perceived important needs nor in the number of needs met. The impact of autistic symptomatology on the diagnostic process and parents self-reported needs is also discussed.