Culturally Competent Care for Asian American Families of Autistic Children

Purpose: As the United States diversifies, the needs of culturally and linguistically diversity (CLD) children with autism and their families demands compassionate and thoughtful action. Specifically, Asian Americans (i.e., people who have immigrated from or have ancestral ties to Asia) may need targeted support, as they are 2.37 times more likely to have a child with autism when compared to the non-Asian American population in the United States. This study aims to answer the following research questions: a) How do Asian American caretakers of autistic children perceive the support they receive for their child and for themselves?; and b) What cultural barriers do Asian American parents of autistic children identify as interfering with accessing services for their children? Methods: By exploring the lived experiences of seven Asian American parents of autistic children under the age of 18 via individual interviews in accessing care, it may be possible to design supports specific to their identified needs that help mitigate barriers and improve access. Results: Sources of support were examined under multiple lenses: social, medical, academic, community, and familial support. Participants reported systemic and community-based barriers (access to resources, stigma, negative stereotypes) to accessing services. Conclusion: Implications for policy and practice are discussed.