Maltese parents’ lived experience of the diagnostic process for autism spectrum conditions (ASC)

Abstract

This study aimed at exploring the experience of the diagnostic process for Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), from the perspective of parents whose children have received such a diagnosis. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews, conducted with four parents whose children had received a diagnosis of ASC within the last three years. Participants were recruited through a local private diagnostic service for ASC. Data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The main findings encompass two superordinate themes. The first superordinate theme is entitled ‘The diagnostic process’ and is compromised of the following three themes: pre-diagnosis, the diagnosis, and adjusting post-diagnosis. The second superordinate theme is entitled ‘support’ and includes two themes which are entitled: beneficial support facilitating adjustment, and lack of practical and emotional support. Key findings that have emerged highlight the difficult emotions that parents face during this process. Attention was also drawn to a lack of services, information and support provided to parents, in turn highlighting a need for further research to be carried out locally.