Transitions of Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Malaysian Parents’ Perspectives

Keywords

autism, transition, interview, observation

Abstract

Problem Statement: Research has shown limited opportunities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) once childcare services end. With a number of studies previously highlighting the prevalence of autism in children among the Asian population and the interventions undertaken that follow these results, it is imperative to now shift the focus to ASD among young adults and the issues that revolve around independent living. Methods: Structural observations and interviews were conducted with the parents of two sons identified to having varying degrees of ASD; a 21-year-old male with Asperger’s syndrome, and his younger brother, a 19-year-old male with ASD at a more severe level. Semi structured questions were used to encourage respondents to express their views and elaborate on the various challenges faced during the period of transitioning for both children. The qualitative nature of this study gives us a valuable insight into dealing with the differences in ASD severity and revealed the trajectory of the progress from the point of diagnosis and other related matters that warrant attention. Findings: The parents report that they are left to deal with the challenges associated with transition as soon as the children with ASD reach a certain age. This is due to imminent withdrawal of the scaffolding provided via educational institutions and other establishments. It was also reiterated that while early interventions and special education are available in Malaysia for those diagnosed with ASD, an apparent limitation of the education system lies in the fact that these do not prepare the young adult with ASD for life beyond the system. The significance of these findings becomes evident in bringing into focus the challenges faced by parents of these children and their concerns about the future. This has implications for stakeholders, especially policy makers who need to invest in revisiting the targets and goals stipulated in Special Education Programmes. Parents’ perspectives should be incorporated into both, the programmes for these children, as well as the training of special education teachers.

Copyright

© 2019, the Authors. Published by Atlantis Press.

Open Access

This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/).

Download article (PDF)

TY  - CONF
AU  - Nik Nadia Nik Nazri
AU  - Leela Koran
PY  - 2019/12
DA  - 2019/12
TI  - Transitions of Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Malaysian Parents’ Perspectives
BT  - Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Special Education (ICSE 2019)
PB  - Atlantis Press
SP  - 6
EP  - 10
SN  - 2352-5398
UR  - https://www.atlantis-press.com/article/125928893
ID  - Nazri2019/12
ER  -