Qualitative Evaluation of a Social Cognitive Training Program for Parents of Children with Autism from Hong Kong

Abstract

A key feature of autism spectrum disorder is a dysfunction in social participation. This study aimed to explore the parents’ perceptions and experiences of social cognitive training for their child with autism in the Hong Kong context. Using a qualitative narrative approach, twenty-three parent participants were interviewed using purposive sampling techniques. Data were analyzed using content analysis method. Three themes included: Improvements and changes in children’s social participation across different settings; Challenges in the implementation of and engagement in the social cognitive training; and Parents’ views and suggestions about the training. The findings supported that there were parent perceived improvements in their child’s social skills and social participation. The interviews also revealed generalization of social skills and behaviors across home, school and community settings. The results of this study can inform therapists to design appropriate social cognitive intervention and improve social participation for this population group.

Keywords:

• Autism
• content analysis
• social cognitive training
• social participation

Acknowledgements

This research project was completed by the first author in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a PhD degree in Occupational Therapy at Monash University under the supervision of the second and third authors. The authors would like to thank all children, adolescents, and parents for their contribution to this study. Special thanks to Dr Cynthia Waugh for her permission to use social cognitive program.

Declaration of interests

The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Additional information

Funding

The study is supported by Staff Development Fund in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Notes on contributors

Phoebe Pui Pui Cheung

Phoebe Pui Pui Cheung, PhD, MA(OT), BSc OT(Hons), OT(C), Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong.Mong-lin Yu, PhD, MOccTh, BSc (OT), GCHPE, Lecturer & Fieldwork Program Coordinator, Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Frankston, Victoria, Australia.Ted Brown, PhD, MSc, MPA, BSc OT(Hons), GCHPE, OT(C), OTR, MRCOT, FOTARA, FAOTA, Professor & Undergraduate Course Coordinator, Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Frankston, Victoria, Australia.