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Department of Special Education & Multiple Abilities

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Browsing Department of Special Education & Multiple Abilities by Subject "Autism"

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    It took a pandemic: Perspectives on impact, stress, and telehealth from caregivers of people with autism
    (Pergamon, 2021) White, Susan W.; Stoppelbein, Laura; Scott, Hunter; Spain, Debbie; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa; University of London; King's College London
    Shelter in place mandates due to the COVID-19 pandemic left caregivers to determine how to best meet the therapeutic requirements of their children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Understanding the challenges faced by families, and their experiences using telehealth for the first time, may help make services sustainable in future public health emergencies. A sample of 70 caregivers of people with ASD from across the US completed an anonymous online survey. Results indicate that impaired emotion regulation was a primary contributor of parent-reported stress for persons with ASD during the pandemic, while loss of established structure and routine contributed to parental stress. Nearly half the sample reported using telehealth for the first time. Many caregivers were appreciative that telehealth permitted continuation of services, but expressed concerns about limited effectiveness due in part to their children?s social communication problems.
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    This may be a really good opportunity to make the world a more autism friendly place: Professionals' perspectives on the effects of COVID-19 on autistic individuals
    (Elsevier, 2021) Spain, Debbie; Mason, David; Capp, Simone J.; Stoppelbein, Laura; White, Susan W.; Happe, Francesca; University of London; King's College London; South London & Maudsley NHS Trust; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
    Background: The COVID-19 (C-19) pandemic affects everyone. Autistic individuals may be at increased risk of experiencing difficulties coping with the impact of C-19 (e.g. due to unexpected changes to usual activities and routines, and the general sense of uncertainty). This preliminary study gathered the perspectives of health and social care professionals, and researchers, about: (1) vulnerability factors for coping with the pandemic; (2) the impact of the pandemic; (3) service provision during the pandemic; and (4) interventions to support reintegration during and post the pandemic. Method: We conducted an online survey, comprising Likert-scale and free text responses. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data thematically. Results: Thirty-seven participants, working in clinical, education and academic settings with autistic individuals, completed the survey. C-19 had substantially impacted service provision, causing major disruption or loss of services. Thematic analysis indicated six overarching themes: (1) vulnerability factors for coping with C-19 and lockdown; (2) positive and negative impact of lockdown (for autistic individuals, families and professionals); (3) public health response to C-19; (4) service provision during the pandemic; (5) inequalities; and (6) looking to the future. Conclusions: Professionals, across disciplines and settings, must now work together with autistic individuals and their families, to understand the impact of these extraordinary circumstances and develop ways everyone can be supported more effectively.