Be the first to comment!Parents’ perspectives on the autism diagnosis process
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Maltese and Gozitan parents’ experiences of their children’s diagnosis with autism are explored in research recently published in the Malta Journal of Health Sciences by two Gozitan authors, Ms Gabriella Grima and Professor Paul Bartolo.
The study explored Maltese and Gozitan parents’ experiences of the journey toward and following their child’s autism diagnosis. Parents struggled to understand and accept their child’s difficulties.
It found that while all were shocked and saddened by the diagnosis, their experiences were affected by different expectations and how the news was delivered.
Grima and Bartolo noted that a lack of emotional support during and after the diagnosis was reported by all the parents whose main support was instead found in sharing the challenges with other parents of autistic children.
While all parents called for improvement of services and societal acceptance, Gozitan parents reported specific difficulties in obtaining support and suffered more from stigma, the authors said.
Grima and Bartolo commented, “this research highlights the importance of early screening and intervention, together with more professional guidance and support for parents.”
The research paper, ‘Maltese and Gozitan Parents Request more Professional Support during their Children’s Autism Diagnosis Process’ is available by clicking here.
Gabriella Grima graduated from the University of Malta with a Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) with First Class Honours. She was awarded the Dean’s List Award from the Faculty for Social Wellbeing. Currently, she is studying for a master’s degree in the same faculty. Grima works as a Psychology Assistant with the School Psychological Service within the Ministry for Education, Sports, Youth, Research and Innovation (MEYR).
Paul A. Bartolo is a full professor in the Department of Psychology, Faculty for Social Wellbeing, University of Malta. He coordinates the MPsy programme for the preparation of psychologists and has a special interest in inclusion and social justice and the development and wellbeing of persons within the autism spectrum.
Photo: Front cover of the Malta Journal of Health Sciences (MJHS)
