Mothers' Perspectives on the Inclusion of Young Autistic Children in Kuwait

J Autism Dev Disord. 2020 Apr;50(4):1198-1209. doi: 10.1007/s10803-019-04351-z.

Abstract

There is a lack of information on early childhood inclusive education and the parental perspectives towards the inclusion of autistic children in Kuwait. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives and experiences amongst mothers of young autistic children regarding the inclusion of their children in general education kindergarten settings. Focus group and individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with (n = 34) Kuwaiti mothers of children with (ASD). The study participants were of the opinion that the behaviours unique to (ASD) can only be managed in highly structured special education settings. The themes that emerged from the interviews demonstrate that the general view amongst the study participants is that the inclusive educational model will not meet the autistic children's needs.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Early childhood inclusive education; Kuwait; Mother’s perspectives.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / epidemiology*
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / psychology*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Education, Special / methods*
  • Education, Special / trends
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kuwait / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Mothers / psychology*
  • Parents / psychology
  • Qualitative Research*
  • Schools / trends