"It was like walking without knowing where I was going": A Qualitative Study of Autism in a UK Somali Migrant Community.

Journal: Journal of autism and developmental disorders

Volume: 47

Issue: 2

Year of Publication: 2017

Affiliated Institutions:  The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, th floor, Whitefriars, Lewins Mead, Bristol, BS NT, UK. f.fox@bristol.ac.uk. Autism Independence, Silai Centre, Easton Road, Bristol, BS ES, UK. The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, th floor, Whitefriars, Lewins Mead, Bristol, BS NT, UK. School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, Whatley Road, Bristol, BS PS, UK.

Abstract summary 

Increasing recognition of autism in Somali migrant communities means that appropriate support services are needed. Attitudes to autism and barriers related to help-seeking in these communities are poorly understood. We aimed to assess what families affected by autism need, and how health, education and social care services can support them. In partnership with the local Somali community the research team conducted 15 in-depth interviews with parents affected by autism. Two themes are reported; 'Perceptions of Autism' and 'Navigating the System'. Our research shows the importance of understanding cultural views of autism and the need to raise awareness, reduce stigma and provide support to encourage families not to delay seeking help for their children.

Authors & Co-authors:  Fox Fiona F Aabe Nura N Turner Katrina K Redwood Sabi S Rai Dheeraj D

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations :  Barnevik-Olsson M, Gillberg C, Fernell E. Prevalence of autism in children of Somali origin living in Stockholm: Brief report of an at-risk population. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology. 2010;52(12):1167–1168. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8749.2010.03812.x.
Authors :  5
Identifiers
Doi : 10.1007/s10803-016-2952-9
SSN : 1573-3432
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Adolescent
Other Terms
Attitudes;Autism;Childhood;Disability;Help-seeking;Migrant;Qualitative;Somali
Study Design
Study Approach
Qualitative
Country of Study
Mali
Publication Country
United States