Abstract: The study investigated the socio-economic challenges faced by parents of children with autism in Zimbabwe. Four research questions were raised and the related literature was reviewed. The study was guided by the Family Systems Theory. The study employed Qualitative Research Design. The target population was very small and it constituted a sample. In-depth interview schedules were used to collect data from 20 parents of children with autism who are members of Autism Support Network. Key informants and documentary review were used to validate the study. Purposive sampling was also used to select key informants and Key informant guides were used to collect further data from key informants. Data analysis was done using thematic content analysis. The results showed that special education and supervision, good health and social inclusion are special needs of children with autism. Their parents face stigma and discrimination, communication problems, high financial costs and lack of resources, challenges to access social services, marital and unemployment problems. These parents use both positive and negative coping strategies. The study concluded that there are many socio-economic challenges in raising a child with autism in Zimbabwe. Many people lack knowledge about autism and the existing laws and policies are not fully executed to improve the welfare of children with autism in Zimbabwe. The study recommended the establishment of special facilities to improve the education of children with autism, improvising related policies and laws, formalising autism support groups, initiating national training of care givers of children with autism, subsidising and ensuring access to social services and spreading autism awareness.
Keywords: Socio-economic challenges, parents, children and autism spectrum.
Title: The Socio-economic Challenges Faced by Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum in Zimbabwe
Author: Overson Musopero
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
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