Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Department
Transformative Action in Education
First Advisor
Brittany Auernig- Roan, Ed.D.
Second Advisor
Laura Hallberg, Ed.D.
First Committee Member
Toniesha Webb, Ed.D.
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted developmental condition that manifests in early childhood, affecting various aspects of neurologic, biological, adaptive, social, linguistic, and cognitive functions. A timely and accurate diagnosis of ASD is crucial for effective intervention, promoting personal and social growth, and fostering independent adulthood. However, obtaining this diagnosis can pose challenges, particularly for people of color, who often encounter disparities in healthcare access compared to their White counterparts. This study aims to investigate the experiences of Filipina mothers raising children with ASD, specifically focusing on their journey to access appropriate autism services.
As of 2019, there were 4.2 million Filipinos residing in the United States, making them a significant ethnic group (Budiman, 2022). Research indicates a heightened risk of severe ASD diagnoses among Filipino children (Becerra et al., 2014). Additionally, Filipina-American women have a notably high prevalence of moderate to severe postpartum depression, which can hinder their ability to identify developmental delays in their infants (Huang et al., 2007). Stereotypical assumptions about Filipina mothers as passive and quiet individuals often lead to their silencing within the predominantly White male medical community (Alvarez et al., 2010; Emerson et al., 2015; Kizildag et al., 2022). Given the higher prevalence of autism among minorities compared to White children (Maenner et al., 2023), addressing this issue and improving access to resources for people of color is imperative.
This narrative study focuses on understanding how Filipina-American women navigate the complex landscape of autism services for their children. The researcher, a Filipina-American mother of children with ASD, initiates this exploration, seeking to shed light on the experiences of fellow Filipina-American mothers. The study will encompass their experience from the initial recognition of their children's developmental and behavioral symptoms to obtaining essential services. The study will gather qualitative data through surveys and interviews, which will be analyzed using thematic analysis.
The research may reveal valuable insights into enhancing early detection of ASD in children of color. Presently, the average age of early ASD detection in the United States stands at five years old (Barbaro et al., 2020). However, existing studies underscore the critical importance of early intervention, ideally before age two, in improving the quality of life for affected individuals and their families (Bailey et al., 2005; Dawson et al., 2010; Harris et al., 2000). Consequently, addressing the experiences of Filipina women in accessing services for their autistic children can contribute to increased resource access and improved outcomes for these families.
Pages
136
Recommended Citation
Boling, Nina Chelle. (2024). Filipina American Mothers’ Experiences Obtaining Services for Their Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. University of the Pacific, Dissertation. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/4286
Included in
Applied Behavior Analysis Commons, Disability and Equity in Education Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Early Childhood Education Commons, Social Work Commons
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