Challenges of transition to adolescence among children with autism spectrum disorder: an exploratory qualitative study of parents’ and teachers’ perspectives

Abstract

Evidence about the transition experiences of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) into adolescence is lacking in low-income country settings, even though most children with ASD live in these countries. This study explored the challenges of transitioning to adolescence among children with ASD based on data from purposely selected samples of 11 parents and six teachers. The findings showed that children with ASD experienced various maturation-related sexual, behavioural, and menarche challenges in their transition to adolescence. Children with ASD also have high support needs for understanding and managing their sexual feelings, may engage in socio-culturally inappropriate sexual activities, and are faced with a range of behavioural challenges. The findings further showed that girls with ASD have hygiene and sanitation management challenges. We suggest awareness-raising and skills-training for parents and teachers and psychosocial intervention for children with ASD. We also strongly recommend future studies and interventions use strengths-based perspectives.