Challenges Faced by Parents in Educational Inclusion of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Parents of the children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are facing various obstacles in acquisition of admission to mainstream education in Pakistan for their child. This is happening due to social stigma based issues, inadequate teacher preparation, institutional gatekeeping issues, and financial constraints, etc. The available research has not captured the lived realities of parents in Pakistan. This study covers this gap through exploration of the real-time challenges which have been experienced by parents in Lahore in their attempts to secure educational inclusion for their children with ASD. For this purpose, a descriptive qualitative methodology is used. A semi-structured and open-ended questionnaires was administered to 15 parents, while doing purposive sampling. Data was collected and analysed thematically. The analysis is supported by direct quotations in order to preserve the authenticity of voices of parents. The findings of this study show that parents are experiencing emotional anguish at the time of diagnosis. They receive minimal professional or school-level support. They face repeated admission refusals or conditional acceptance with shadow teachers. Financial burdens further restrict their access. Additionally, there are cultural misconceptions and social stigmas which intensify their stress. Despite these constraints, parents demonstrate their resilience for the welfare of their child and they propose clear recommendations for policy and institutional reform. The study highlights that there is an urgent need for coordinated and comprehensive action at government level in order to get inclusive education for all in the Punjab, Pakistan.

Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Inclusive Education, Parental Challenges, Special Education