Issues concerning South Asian parents raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This research study explored the experiences of seven Asian Indian American\ud mothers who are raising children that have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum\ud Disorder (ASD). While lately ASD has been the focus of many scientific and medical\ud researchers, few sociological studies have been conducted in regard to Asian\ud American families raising children with ASD. Drawing from conversation about\ud their day-to- day lives, this study investigates the experiences of these Asian\ud American mothers caring for their children and their interaction within two cultures.\ud Findings from this study reveal that Asian American families have encountered\ud difficulties in getting timely diagnosis and services. The study also shows that raising\ud children within two cultures has its limitations. The lack of community support and\ud indifference to the disorder has made families be alienated within their Asian\ud community. The study further reveals South Asian American mothers role as\ud caregivers, and the challenges they face both in the mainstream and within the South\ud Asian community.\ud Key Words: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Autism, Asian Americans, Asian\ud Culture, Model Minority Myt