Pajouhan Scientific Journal, Summer, In Press
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Research code: 1398,295IR.SBMU.PHARMACY.REC.
Ethics code: 1398,295IR.SBMU.PHARMACY.REC.
1- Hamedan University of Medical Sciences
2- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences ,simazohari@gmail.com
3- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
2- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences ,
3- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
Abstract: (13 Views)
Background and Objectives: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one of the most challenging neurodevelopmental disorders, requiring specialized interventions. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of therapists of children with ASD in the cultural context of Iran. Materials and Methods: Research design This qualitative study was conducted with an interpretive phenomenological approach in 2013. A purposive sampling of 14 therapists (5 occupational therapists, 4 speech therapists, 3 psychologists, and 2 pediatricians) with at least 2 years of work experience was selected. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews (40 to 70 minutes) and analyzed using the 7-step Claise method in MaxQuda software. For the accuracy of the data, acceptability, reliability, transferability, and confirmability, which are considered as criteria of scientific accuracy in qualitative research and have been proposed by Guba and Welinken, were considered. Findings: Data analysis led to the extraction of two main categories: 1) Conflicting emotions: With two subcategories of negative emotions and positive emotions 2) Psychological gains: With two subcategories of self-understanding and social understanding. Conclusion: The findings of this study show that therapists of children with autism report dual experiences of negative (such as frustration and fatigue) and positive (such as job satisfaction and sense of worth) emotions when faced with the challenges of this disorder. These experiences have led to significant psychological gains, including personality growth and increased social understanding. The results emphasize the need to design organized support programs to reduce the emotional burden of therapists and enhance the positive aspects of their professional experience. This study provides a deep insight into the inner world of therapists, paving the way for improving the quality of services provided to children with autism and their families.
Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder, lived experiences, therapists, qualitative study, phenomenology, children, mental health
Type of Study: Research Article |
Subject:
Psychology and Psychiatry
Received: 2025/12/24 | Accepted: 2026/06/17
Received: 2025/12/24 | Accepted: 2026/06/17
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