JOURNAL ARTICLE

Understanding of Autism and the Diagnostic Process in Uzbekistan: Mothers' Perspectives.

  • Published In: Research & Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities, 2026, v. 51, n. 2. P. 79 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Asaro-Saddler, Kristie; Hamsho, Narmene; Uzoqova, Mohinur; Ghazali, Hedayat 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines Uzbek mothers' understanding of autism and their perceptions of their children's assessment and diagnostic processes in Uzbekistan, addressing a gap in autism research within non-Western, low- and middle-income countries. Through a qualitative focus group with seven mothers, findings reveal that while mothers generally have a good understanding of autism's causes and characteristics, misconceptions such as vaccine-related causation persist alongside beliefs influenced by cultural and religious factors. The diagnostic process was described as lengthy and challenging, hindered by a shortage of trained professionals and limited access to appropriate services. The study underscores the importance of culturally responsive approaches and improved diagnostic resources to better support families of children with autism in Uzbekistan.

Additional Information

  • Source:Research & Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities. 2026/06, Vol. 51, Issue 2, p79
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Geography and Cartography
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:1540-7969
  • DOI:10.1177/15407969251343493
  • Accession Number:193276616
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Research & Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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