Exploring occupational therapy intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorder in South Africa.
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Date
2013
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Abstract
Occupational Therapy is amongst the top three interventions sought for young
children with ASD in South Africa. Due to scarce local research on OT for ASD, this
study explored the nature as well as perceptions of OTs on intervention for ASD.
Using a qualitative exploratory study design, semi-structured interviews were
conducted with twenty OTs in public and private health, as well as special needs
education. Thematic analysis was used to analyse transcribed data. OTs
descriptions and perceptions of assessment, direct and indirect intervention as well
as challenges facing families and undergraduate and qualified OTs in South Africa
were explored. Assessment for ASD utilised play based skilled observations with
limited use of standardised tests. Developmental approaches were preferred to
behavioural ones, with the majority of OTs referencing the Sensory Integration (SI)
framework for assessment and therapy, even if they were not SI certified
practitioners. The value of SI in reframing a child’s behaviour for parents was
significant. The South African Model of Creative Ability was a unique local
application to practice for ASD. Intervention in education was most ASD specific,
including AAC and visual approaches due to a comprehensive programme and
greater levels of team collaboration. A family focussed practice was most evident in
private and public health. Direct individual therapy was predominant, with all sectors
struggling to provide the intensity of therapy recommended for ASD, due to unique
contextual challenges. Undergraduate training is insufficient preparation for working
with ASD and a need for local OT specialists was identified. Implications for
research and practice are discussed.
Description
M.O.T. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 2013.
Keywords
Autism spectrum disorders--South Africa., Autism spectrum disorders in children--South Africa., Occupational therapists., Theses--Occupational therapy.