How UK health care professionals conceptualise parental experiences of the diagnostic process for autism spectrum disorder: A qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Much of the literature on diagnostic experiences of autism focuses on parental perspectives. Few studies have explored how health care professionals conceptualise parental experiences of the diagnostic process. The current study examines clinical perspectives of the diagnostic process with a focus on the perceived impact of assessment on families.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 25 health care professionals from various National Health Service child and adolescent mental health services and general practices in the United Kingdom. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and data were analysed using a thematic approach.

Results

Two main themes were identified: (1) stress and the autism spectrum disorder diagnostic process and (2) expectations

SUBMITTER: Daniels NF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8287381 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature