Abstract
Given that autistic children are hospitalized at higher rates than neurotypical peers, it is important to understand the autism-specific preparedness of healthcare providers. Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLSs) play a crucial role in pediatric hospitalizations by providing socioemotional support and coping strategies. The present study assessed perceived competency and comfort levels among 131 CCLSs regarding the management of challenging behaviors exhibited by autistic pediatric patients, including aggression and self-injury. All participants reported experiences providing care to autistic children who exhibited challenging behaviors, but very few reported both high perceived competency and high comfort in managing these behaviors. Autism-specific training positively correlated with perceived competency and comfort. These results have implications for providing autistic children high quality hospital care.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
