Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Education and Promotion

Advisor

Jill Nolan

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze parent perspectives on early intervention services for children with autism. Research has shown a significant positive impact of early intervention on children with autism. A total of eight parents participated in this basic qualitative study guided by social cognitive theory. Participating parents were those whose child had an autism diagnosis and were receiving or had received early intervention services in Southeast Michigan. Data analysis included establishing themes and codes to organize the data into categories. Thematic analysis was applied by analyzing interview transcripts. The research questions used to collect data addressed parents’ perspectives on early intervention, facilitators of and barriers to early intervention, and improving the effectiveness of intervention programs. Results indicated four themes from parents’ perspectives on early intervention for children with autism. The findings of this study indicated that the parents thought that teachers were interactive and had good communication, that their children received individually tailored programs and therapies, that parents struggled with transportation due to expenses and having to take off work, that the teachers’ availability through phone and in person provided good communication, and that parents lacked outside resource information. Findings from this study could be used to improve parent involvement and delivery of early intervention. The study may also continue to support positive social change for health educators and children by improving early intervention programs along with starting new programs.

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