Detailed contribution information
| Contribution title | Community Participation, Supports and Barriers of Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder in Turkey |
|---|---|
| Contribution code | D1.013 |
| Authors | |
| Form of presentation | Poster |
| Topic |
|
| Abstract |
Aim: To compare participation patterns, environmental supports, and barriers to community activities in adolescents with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Turkey. Methods: Particpants were 60 chilren with ASD and 55 typically developing peers ages 5-18 years (mean age 10.1, S.D 3.16 years) Participation frequency, involvement rate, mothers who desired change, and environmental supports and barriers in a community setting were assessed with the Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth (PEM-CY). Results: Children with ASD participated 44-87% less frequently in organized physical activities, religious activities and getting together with other children in the community than typically developing peers. The mean involvement rate in eight community activities, including neighborhood outings, community events, organised physical activities, unstructered physical activities, religious activities, socialising with peers in the community, working for pay and overnight visits, was significantly lower for children with ASD than for typically developing peers (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Children with ASD participate less frequently and are less involved in socializing with peers in the community. It was seen that sensory qualities, physical and cognitive difficulties, social demans, and relationship with peers and attitudes may prevent participation of children with ASD in the community. |