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Abstract The Perceived Needs of Parents of Children with Autism: Social, Economic, and Demographic Correlates Linda C. Bird 1995 The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived needs of parents with children with autism and compare their needs with several social, economic, and demographic variables. A convenience sample of 86 families, whose children had been diagnosed with autism at the University Affiliated Program (UAP) clinic in Vermillion, South Dakota between 1987 and 1995, was utilized for this study. Each family was mailed a Family Needs Survey, a demographic data sheet, and a letter of introduction with an explanation of informed consent. A total of 22 surveys were returned to the clinic. Only ten surveys could be used for this study. A descriptive statistical analysis was conducted using frequencies, means, and modes. The limited number of surveys prevented more complex statistical analysis. Results indicated the greatest area of need for parents with children with autism was the need for information, particularly information related to future available services. Fifty percent also indicated a desire to talk with other parents of children with autism. The age of the parents and the number of children in the family did not seem related to the number or types of needs expressed by parents. There was, however, a marked increase in the number of needs for these families, all of whom had a child with autism who was ten-year-old and all of whom were diagnosed seven years ago. Interestingly, all three of these families also had the highest income and education of all respondents. Further research with a large sample size is recommended.
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