Date

11-13-2024

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Margaret GoPaul

Keywords

diagnosis disparities, autism spectrum disorder, black, indigenous, people of color, diagnostic errors

Disciplines

Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

With a pressing need to examine racial and ethnic differences in ASD detection to discern potential inaccuracies in diagnosis within groups, this study used a transcendental phenomenological design to explore the explanations for misdiagnosis within Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) households, comparing their encounters with Whites. The research involved six parents and one family member of children who were originally wrongfully identified, only to in the future confirm ASD. Through semi-structured conversations, the study delved into the distinctive trials of BIPOC households. Data analysis respected the Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen technique, with thematic exploration used to recognize repetitions, highlighted differences in the diagnostic course, and emphasized cohesion between participants' encounters. The findings showed meaningful barriers to diagnosis, accessibility concerns, financial stress, and cultural prejudices in healthcare. Results also underlined the delayed diagnoses and cultural confusion of symptoms that unduly affect BIPOC children. This study provided an in-depth outline of the difficulties faced by BIPOC households through the ASD diagnostic journey. Implications of this study emphasized the important demand to tackle systemic healthcare prejudices, mainly in the diagnosis of ASD within BIPOC households, using the transformative framework. By promoting culturally capable methods and policy changes, the study could eliminate the influence of hierarchies in healthcare and encourage unbiased access to diagnostic and patient care assistance in marginalized communities.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS