Role of Psychological Education and Parental Support in Therapeutic Interventions for Children with Autism: A Qualitative Check
Subject Areas : Journal of Excellence in counseling and psychotherapy
1 - 1. Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Amir al-Momenin (AS) University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.
Keywords: Psychological education, parental support, autistic children, therapeutic interventions.,
Abstract :
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of psychological education and parental support in therapeutic interventions for children with autism. This qualitative study sought to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of professionals and parents working in this field.
Methodology: The research method was qualitative using thematic analysis and sampling was done by theoretical saturation method, as a result of which the participants of the research consisted of 21 occupational therapists from autism centers. In order to collect data, a semi-structured interview was used, the total duration of which was 589 minutes (M: 28.05±5.69). The data was collected from the first of May to the end of June 2022, and the method of data analysis was based on thematic analysis based on the theme network.
Findings: Based on interviews with 21 occupational therapists working with autistic children who have difficulty attending school, the challenges of psychological treatment for this group of children were categorized into 4 main categories (therapeutic interventions, therapeutic goals, therapeutic status, and desired therapeutic development) and 19 related subcategories. The findings indicate that the greatest focus of these specialists in the interviews was on therapeutic interventions, and among these, psychoeducation and parental support were identified as the most prominent components.
Conclusion: Therefore, interventions such as psychoeducation for children and parents, counseling and educational support for parents, as well as close collaboration with specialists in autism centers, schools, and welfare centers are recommended to provide comprehensive and coordinated services to this group of children.
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