Browsing by Author "Simple Nyanjura Byaruhanga"

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    Challenges and Coping Mechanisms of Caregivers of Children Between 3 and 8 Years With Autism Spectrum Disorders in Selected Kampala Schools Offering Special Needs and Inclusive Education Services
    (Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-22) Simple Nyanjura Byaruhanga
    Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder [ASD] can be hard on both the child and the parents, but especially the parents. ASD manifests in a variety of ways, including the inability to maintain eye contact and respond with appropriate facial expressions; the inability to respond to peers in a manner that fosters healthy social and emotional relationships and communication; delayed speech; and repetitive behavioral patterns. Methods: The study employed an interpretative phenomenological study design so that the researcher can get an in-depth understanding of the participants’ experiences as they shared them extensively. A sample of ten caregivers selected using purposive sampling participated in the study. A semi-structured interview guide was used in data collection, and thematic-reflexive approach to analyze the data. Results: The study revealed that motor delays, social-psychological delays, cognitive delays, and aggressive behavior were behaviors that triggered suspicion and later led caregivers to visit a health professional. Furthermore, the study featured a major theme, "Challenges experienced," which focused on the challenges faced by caregivers, including financial constraints, stigma, depression, and marital issues. Finally, the study focused on coping mechanisms, specifically emotional coping, and found that caregivers employed denial-based, pain-based, hopeful, and problem-focused responses. The data showed that caregivers employ various coping mechanisms such as faith in God, financial coping, social coping, and social support, particularly after participants disclosed their struggles to secure affordable and high-quality education for their children. Despite these ongoing challenges, the collective efforts and support networks have significantly improved the caregivers' ability to provide for their children's needs. Discussion: Caregivers faced significant challenges in accepting that their child is on the autism spectrum. Many experienced a delay in seeking help, initially noticing potential indicators but struggling to confront the hard reality of the diagnosis. This period of denial often led to emotional pain, isolation, and stigma. The support of family members, friends, and other parents of children on the spectrum played a crucial role in helping them come to terms with the diagnosis