Parents Perspective of Participation in Teleh...

Parents Perspective of Participation in Telehealth Mode of Sensory Integration Occupational Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: India

Author Name : Manish Samnani, Dr. Brajesh Kumar Mishra, Dr. Pramod Kumar Yadav

ABSTRACT

The objective of this qualitative study, conducted in India, was to assess the perceptions of parents with children with autism spectrum disorder about teletherapy. This qualitative study collected data from in-depth interviews with parents of children with autism. Thematic content analysis used Coded texts and topic identification procedures. Five themes were identified: 1) Reason for referral 2) Perception about telehealth 3) Parents adaptation 4) Experience with telehealth 5) Effectiveness of telehealth. It was determined that one of the barriers to including children with autism was the lack of sensitization of teachers and the cultivation of their empathy. Initially it was found that a few parents were apprehensive about signing up for teletherapy but were more and more comfortable as they started receiving sessions. Parents also reported that telehealth therapy was extremely beneficial in COVID times as well as for parents who don’t have facilities around them to cater to the needs of the special child. On the other hand, some of the parents also felt that the parent’s implementation was way short and ineffective than what could have been done with onsite therapy.

Keyword: Technology, Telehealth, Autism Intervention, Accessibility, Therapy, Sensory, Disorder