The Path Less Visible: Decoding the Autism Care Pathway Through the Lenses of Black Caregivers

The study aims to understand how Black caregivers experience navigating autism care for their children across school and medical settings

• Caregivers and children who self-identify as Black
• Access to a phone, computer, or e-mail
• Willing to be audio-video recorded
• Caregivers age 18 or older
• The child has an autism diagnosis, school eligibility, or positive screener
• The child must be between the ages of 2 and 8

• Complete an interest form
• Complete a demographic survey
• Zoom interview (60 min)

My study is highly important to the every day challenges posed by autism, particularly for Black families navigating the autism care pathway. Focusing on the experiences of Black caregivers addresses systemic inequities that directly impact access to accurate diagnoses, timely interventions, and quality care. These disparities often exacerbate the already significant challenges of managing autism, making it essential to uncover the cultural, social, and structural factors influencing these caregivers’ journeys.

The study offers practical findings by identifying barriers to care, such as miscommunication between caregivers and providers, cultural misunderstandings, and systemic biases. These insights can inform the development of culturally responsive training for providers, improve diagnostic accuracy, and enhance support services tailored to the needs of Black families. Ultimately, this research aims to bridge gaps in autism care, fostering equity and better outcomes for underserved populations. Its findings have the potential to influence healthcare and educational systems, providing actionable steps for creating more inclusive and effective support structures for families affected by autism.