Chinese Caregivers’ Attitudes Toward ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)–Based Interventions for Their Autistic Children: A Qualitative Exploration

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Innovations to Support Students With Autism (Table 15)

Abstract

Interventions based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) are increasingly being used for autistic children in China. However, there is limited knowledge about the attitudes of Chinese caregivers towards ABA-based interventions and their lived experiences. In this study, eight Chinese caregivers of autistic children were interviewed to understand their attitudes towards and experiences of ABA-based interventions. Both caregiver groups shared positive and negative experiences related to intensive behavioral interventions based on ABA. Caregivers expressed concern regarding the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of ABA-based interventions in their own communities and in the country as a whole. Implications for policymakers, service providers, and caregivers are discussed.

Authors

• Qichao Pan, University of Minnesota

• Moon Young Savana Bak, University of Minnesota

• Yi Yang, Lingnan Normal University