Beliefs and Practices Regarding Autism in Indian Families Now Settled Abroad

Abstract

Beliefs and practices regarding autism were explored in Indian families living outside India. Parents ( N = 24) of children (3 to 15 years) with an autism spectrum disorder wrote open-ended answers in an online questionnaire regarding their beliefs about causes, treatments and services received, use of and preference for Indian medicine and practices, and acculturation. Although two participants did not provide enough answers to be categorized, three groups of parents emerged: Those who were primarily Western ( n = 4) in their beliefs and practices concerning autism, those who were primarily Indian ( n = 4), and those who endorsed a combination of Western and Indian beliefs and practices ( n = 14). Most parents acknowledged traditional beliefs and practices only when specifically asked and did not volunteer this information. Professionals need to avoid assuming there is a universal set of attitudes and practices related to autism when working with culturally diverse families.