ERIC Number: EJ954314
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2011-Dec
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1030-0112
EISSN: N/A
Exploring the Perception of Asperger's Disorder
Kite, Donna M.; Tyson, Graham A.; Gullifer, Judith M.
Australasian Journal of Special Education, v35 n2 p204-219 Dec 2011
With current preparation for the release of the fifth edition of the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-5) in 2013, many changes have been proposed for the diagnostic criteria, including changes to the pervasive development disorder category--of which Asperger's disorder is a part. Using focus group discussions this study explored how Asperger's disorder is perceived by Australian health and education staff, parents of children diagnosed with Asperger's disorder and community members. A total of 51 people participated in eight focus groups. Theory-led thematic analysis of the discussions revealed five themes of aetiology uncertainty, challenging behaviour, barriers in service provision, terminology confusion and label stigma. These themes are discussed in relation to the proposed diagnostic changes and implications for future research.
Descriptors: Autism, Asperger Syndrome, Mental Disorders, Parents, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Focus Groups, Foreign Countries, Research, Identification, Perception, Evaluation Methods, Special Education
Australian Academic Press. 32 Jeays Street, Bowen Hills, Queensland 4500, Australia. Tel: +61-7-3257-1176; Fax: +61-7-3253-5908; e-mail: aap@australianacademicpress.com.au; Web site: http://www.australianacademicpress.com.au
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A