Navigating family messaging: Qualitative experiences of Black caregivers of children with autism.

ABSTRACT: Black caregivers of children with autism express that there are gaps in both knowledge and acceptance of disabilities within their communities. This lack of information and resources provided to Black communities can lead to tensions within families regarding autism diagnoses and how to support individuals with autism in their families. As part of a larger qualitative study, 23 Black caregivers of children with autism shared their experiences with the messages received from family members about their child's autism diagnosis. Two overarching themes emerged regarding family messaging: Lack of Understanding and Denial of Autism and Supportive Acceptance and Inclusion. Six subthemes were identified that highlight the nuance within the messaging content. These findings can inform

SUBMITTER: Marquez D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12618728 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature