Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Low-Resource Settings: Reported Experiences and Needs of Parents in Mongolia

Although it is well-documented that families of children with autism in developed nations report hardships, few researchers have focused on families who live in less-developed, low-resource settings. Using five focus groups with 30 parents of children with autism in Mongolia, a low- resource setting, the purpose of this study was to provide detailed accounts of their experiences, challenges, and needs. Participants reported severe challenges related to raising their children with autism in their country. Parents shared barriers related to the limited availability of services and support, exacerbated financial burdens, and a lack of enforcement of relevant laws. Parents also shared their perceived needs including more services for their children, more sustainable training and coaching programs for parents, and parents’ collective advocacy.