A-271 Assessment of Autistic Filipino-Americans using the ECLECTIC Model

Abstract

Abstract Objective: Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties with social communication and restricted/repetitive behaviors. It is reported to occur in all racial and ethnic groups; however, literature on assessing autistic Filipino-Americans is scarce. Therefore, multicultural assessment guidelines are imperative in the diagnostic process as there are specific cultural factors that should be considered such as perception on disabilities, cultural values, acculturation level, etc. We discuss the use of the ECLECTIC model in assessing a US-born Filipino-American child of immigrant parents. Methods: In addition to commonly used assessment battery, the following theoretical constructs were implemented to asses this case: Education, Culture and Acculturation, Language and Language Proficiency, Economics, Communication, Testing Situation, Intelligence Concept, and Context of Immigration. For instance, the family’s cultural and educational backgrounds were taken into consideration. Additionally, the patient’s “fluency in Japanese,” which caregivers’ thought was evidence of multilingual skills, was in fact stereotyped speech. Results: The evaluation revealed significant weakness in reasoning, academic skills, and adaptive skills. All autism-related measures indicated autism. Further, results revealed that his expressive communication was limited. Of note, what the family thought was functional communication in another language was actually delayed echolalia from videos. Conclusions: Cultural factors significantly affected this family’s perception of the patient’s behaviors and social interactions. Using a cultural lens is essential in autism assessments because of the strong relationship between social cognition/behaviors and culture. Additionally, assessment will enhance clinical formulation and help identify potential biases that may interfere with appropriate autism diagnosis and effective recommendations, particularly in the Filipino-American community.