Laoise Coady

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Country: Ireland
Background: Medicinal Chemistry
Research Project: Experiences accessing services for autistic spectrum disorders: A comparative analysis between Dublin and New York

This study examined the experiences of parents with children who have an autistic spectrum disorder. A comparative case study analysis of legislation and parental
experiences in Ireland and New York State was conducted to ascertain whether current service provision could be improved in either case context. Five parents in each of Ireland and New York were interviewed about the services they received during and after the diagnosis of their child, and the impact their child’s diagnosis had on their family life. 
 
This study showed that parents, in both case contexts, experience similar feelings of devastation, fear and grief on obtaining the diagnosis. More problems with regard to
obtaining the diagnosis and services were reported in Ireland where public services are thin on the ground in comparison to New York. It was found that in Ireland parents were more likely to access services privately. Parents from both cases reported that the diagnosis had a considerable impact on family life and on other siblings. Existing policies were also examined and recommendations for future policy made.