Research Summary 

Title: Examining the perspectives of Latino families of children with autism spectrum disorder towards advocacy 

Purpose: Although students in the United States are becoming more diverse and Latino families of children with disabilities face greater systemic barriers in partnering with the school, little research has examined advocacy among Latino families. The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of advocacy among Latino families of children with autism spectrum disorder.    

Method: Four focus groups were conducted with 46 Latino parents of children with autism spectrum disorder about their perceptions toward advocacy.    

Findings:  

• Participants reported a variety of approaches to advocacy including: being assertive, engaging in school activities, communicating with school personnel, documenting school communication, and relying on special education knowledge and their faith.  
• Participants reported several barriers to advocacy: poor school experiences; stress; and stigma and discrimination.  
• Participants also reported facilitators to advocacy  including: knowledge and resources about special education; frequent communication with the school; and greater peer support.  

For more information, see:  

Burke, M.M., Rios, K., Garcia, M., Sandman, L., Lopez, B. & Magaña, S. (in press): Examining  

the Perspectives of Latino Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Towards Advocacy, Exceptionality, DOI:10.1080/09362835.2018.1433041