Hispanic Parents’ Experience Raising Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comparative Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has a profound impact on millions of families in the United States. While Hispanic families represent the most rapidly growing demographic group within this population, little research explores their unique experiences in coping with the family impacts of ASD. This comparative study explored the lived experiences of Hispanic parents of children with ASD. Fifteen Hispanic parents were part of the studies and a comparison study was conducted deriving from both. Moutstakas’ modified data analysis approach was used to theme out the findings. Four major themes emerged from the data analysis: 1) parental response 2) the other children 3) parental impact 4) future. Findings suggest ways in which the construction of the role of parenthood in a Hispanic culture held unique implications for participants as they sought and struggled to find the balance of ASD. Implications for practice and scholars with Hispanic families of children with ASD based on their lived experiences are presented.