Korean Immigrant Mothers and the Journey to an Autism Diagnosis for Their Child in the United States

• In Event: Improving Special and Inclusive Education Through Familial Perspectives and Experiences

Abstract

Since autism diagnosis is directly linked to the availability of supportive services, identifying best practices for early diagnosis of autism has long been a concern of professionals and families. Meanwhile, studies show persistent racial disparities in autism diagnosis. Studies further demonstrate challenges for professionals as they consider cultural variables when assessing children from diverse backgrounds with autism. This study focuses on the autism diagnostic experiences of eleven Korean immigrant mothers for their children through semi-structured interviews. Five factors were identified through thematic analysis: language, culture, immigration & system, and facilitator. Dynamics are interactive within and between the factors, influencing the entire diagnosis process by either delaying or facilitating the identification of a child’s autism and the provision of treatment.

Authors

• HyeYoung Kim, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Sohyun An Kim, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Han Lee, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Robin L. Dodds, California State University - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author