| Abstract: | The purpose of this study was to assess the challenges of parents of children and their support
needs in raising an autistic child. To attain this objective, a qualitative research approach was
implemented. In this qualitative study, four parents of autistic children at Nehemiah Autism
Center were interviewed regarding their experiences in having autistic children and the
challenges encountered and their support need. In addition, two staff members were also
interviewed. The researcher utilized semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews as a
qualitative research method of data collection using interview guide. As the finding of this study
indicated that, parents of autistic children experienced many challenges. Together with many
other social, emotional and economic challenges these parents facing, lack of professional and
institutional support were the major ones. The finding of the study also showed that parents and
the public including health workers have limited awareness and information about the disorder.
Therefore it can be concluded that the lack of information and awareness about the disorder is
the biggest challenge this parents facing. As the public lacks awareness it also affects the service
available to the autistic children and their parents. It is recommended that the concerned
professionals and institutions main focus should be working on awareness creation. |
