Importance of Quality of Life Issues: Pilot Comparison-Teachers & Parents of Children w ASD

JAASEP SPRING SUMMER 2014- ABSTRACT - Quality of life (QoL) issues for parents and teachers of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are important to investigate. Independence, social functioning, school functioning and participating in leisure activities are some of the quality of life indicators that parents and teachers must agree upon to ensure effective communication and goal-setting. The purpose of the current study was to compare the perspectives of parents and teachers of children with ASD with regard to the importance of quality of life issues. Participants for this study consisted of parents and teachers of children with ASD. Results indicate that often, parents and teachers have different QoL goals for children and students with autism spectrum disorders. These differences in goals can be a complex issue and could result in discrepancies in how we educate individuals with ASD. Authors: Dr. Julie Ivey-Hatz & Dr. Karen Frederick