Intersection between Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Immigration: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction: in recent years, the number of studies investigating a potential connection between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and migration has increased. This article presents a scoping review of the relationship between ASD and migration, focusing on cultural, ethnic factors, and migratory experiences. Method: a scoping review method was employed, analyzing articles in categories such as cultural influences, barriers, diagnosis, early intervention, parent perspectives, and autism-associated stigma. Results: the importance of addressing the interaction of cultural, systemic, and individual factors to enhance support and outcomes in individuals and families diagnosed with ASD in immigrant communities is emphasized. Conclusion: evidence suggests the existence of common barriers in neurodevelopmental disorders and ASD in migrant populations, including structural, socioeconomic, social, and cultural factors such as lack of medical insurance, service fragmentation, inadequate social support, and a lack of culturally appropriate resources.