Exploring parent and service provider expectations for children with autism or intellectual disability: A two-country follow-up study.

This study looked at what parents and professionals expect for children with autism or intellectual disability in Ghana and Zambia. In Ghana, parents and service providers had different views about what was important for children and what they could achieve in their communities. In Zambia, parents and professionals had more similar expectations. This research helps us understand cultural differences in expectations for children with disabilities.

This two-country study examined expectations of 207 parents and service providers for children with autism spectrum disorders or intellectual disability in Ghana and Zambia. Using country-specific surveys, participants rated expectation statements on perceived importance and likelihood of attainment. Key findings revealed significant differences between parents and service providers in Ghana regarding both the perceived importance of expectations and the likelihood of children attaining community outcomes. However, no significant differences emerged between these groups in Zambia.

The study provides insights into cross-cultural perspectives on disability expectations in low-and-middle-income countries, with implications for service delivery and policy development.

Results suggest need for culturally-informed approaches to align parent and provider expectations. Professionals should assess family expectations and work collaboratively to establish realistic, culturally-appropriate goals. Cross-cultural differences in expectation alignment may require tailored service delivery models in different contexts.

The abstract does not specify the study methodology, sampling approach, or detailed demographic characteristics. The nature of the expectation statements and specific community outcomes measured are unclear, limiting interpretation of findings.

Few studies have examined care providers' expectations for children with autism spectrum disorders or intellectual disability in low-and-middle-income countries. We used data from a qualitative study to inform a quantitative investigation of parents' and service providers' expectations for children with autism or intellectual disability in Ghana and Zambia. 207 participants completed country-specific surveys examining expectations for children with autism or intellectual disability. Participants rated each expectation statement on two criteria: (i) the perceived importance and (ii) the perceived likelihood of attainment. We investigated differences using multivariate analysis of variance strategies.

There were significant differences between parents and service providers in Ghana on the perceived importance of, and the likelihood of children with autism or intellectual disability attainingcommunity. No significant differences emerged in Zambia. The findings and research, policy, and practice implications are discussed.