International Journal of Speech and Audiology
2023, Vol. 4, Issue 1, Part A
The impact of the pandemic on children with autism spectrum disorder and their families
Author(s): Balambigai N, Suruthilaya and Dr. Priya Kanagamuthu
Abstract: Introduction: The objective of the study was to understand the effects of pandemic on children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families in India, the effectiveness of teletherapy, the parental stress levels and the sources of stress. Methodology: A structured interview was conducted with 53 parents of children with ASD. The children were aged between 3.5-12 years. The responses were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Results: Parents reported a significant increase in problem behaviour, decline in social and emotional skills, but improvements in language skills. More than half the participants were attending teletherapy, and reported it to be beneficial, but one-third of the participants reported limited benefit due to difficulties in sustaining the child’s attention. The majority of the parents reported high levels of stress, with the major sources of stress being children’s behavioral problems, closure of schools and disruptions in therapeutic services. Conclusion: Addressing the parental stress and making appropriate adaptations to teletherapy through a multi-disciplinary team is essential.
Pages: 29-34 | Views: 380 | Downloads: 187
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How to cite this article:
Balambigai N, Suruthilaya and Dr. Priya Kanagamuthu. The impact of the pandemic on children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. International Journal of Speech and Audiology. 2023; 4(1): 29-34.
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