Parent Experience with a Dual Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Hearing Impairment
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Date
2014
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Publisher
Ohio State University. Department of Speech and Hearing Science
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the experiences of parents raising children with a dual diagnosis of hearing impairment and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Subjects were recruited through outreach to a network of professionals in related fields, as well as the Autism Research Institute’s Network for Deaf/Hard of Hearing and Blind/Visually Impaired. Five qualifying parents consented to participation in the study and shared their experiences in a one-on-one interview. Results were analyzed using strategies from the thematic network analysis theory, a qualitative research model. Parents reflected on their experiences during the diagnostic processes, throughout interventions and therapy, and regarding their educational decisions. Results revealed unique experiences across families, as was anticipated; however, overlying themes included fluctuating emotional experiences with professionals during the diagnostic processes, eventual satisfaction with interventions received, and ongoing challenges regarding educational decisions. The results of this study support the goal of contributing to the limited body of research on the co-occurrence of hearing impairment and ASD, as well as raising awareness and insight for health care providers and educational professionals who provide services to individuals in this population.