Exploring Patterns Between School Perceptions, Child Behavior, and Maternal Well-being Among Latina Mothers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Recent research suggests that child problem behavior and family-school partnerships contribute to maternal stress in families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However most extant research only focuses only on White families even though Latina mothers of children with ASD experience greater systemic barriers impacting parent well-being and access to services. This study investigates the relation between school perceptions, child behavior, and Latina mothers’ psychological well-being. Specifically, interviews were conducted with 13 Latina mothers of children with ASD. Findings indicate that mothers reported feeling stressed, worried, frustrated, and sad because of their child’s behavior. Second, participants reported negative perceptions related to the school.  Finally, participants reported mixed responses regarding the school’s actions to address their child’s behavior. The implications of this research and future directions are discussed.

Author
Alejandra Valencia Medina
School
Pomona College
Department
Chicano Latino Studies
Research Advisor
Dr. Meghan Burke
Department of Research Advisor
Special Education
Year of Publication
2019