Communication in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study of Mothers’ Perspectives

Olga Jara Domingo; Saralie Saralie V. Estrito V. Estrito; Kathleen Faye J. Decena; Mariane C. Mercado

Olga Jara Domingo Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines
Saralie Saralie V. Estrito V. Estrito Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines
Kathleen Faye J. Decena Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines
Mariane C. Mercado Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, communication, communication strategies

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore mothers' perspectives on communication of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) specifically to (1) describe the communication of children with ASD; (2) determine the strategies mothers used to promote their children's communication; (3) determine mothers' expectations on their children's communication; and (4) recommend a plan of action to the school. Limitations of the study were discussed. Purposive sampling was employed to explore the communication strategies of mothers through the lens of Social Learning Theory. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted, and data analysis followed a thematic approach. Verbal communication, touched-based communication, and pointing were the means of communication for children with ASD. Mothers utilized communication strategies such as verbal input, augmentative and alternative communication, and linguistic mapping. They expect their children to express themselves effectively and establish connections with others. Hence, it is recommended that the Department of Education develop and implement standard training programs for special education teachers on individualized communication interventions and strategies, the local school provides after-school programs to create opportunities for communication and social interaction and offers training sessions and resources to teachers and staff, partner with local autism organizations and professionals, and mothers attend trainings and workshops to support their children.

Author Biographies

Olga Jara Domingo, Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines

Olga J. Domingo earned a BS in Agricultural Business, an MS in Development Communication, and a Doctorate in Development Communication from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. A pioneer faculty, she is the Program Chair of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication. She is an active member of different communication organizations like the Philippine Association of Communication Educators (PACE) and the School Press Advisers’ Movement, Inc. (SPAM, Inc.) where she is currently an elected officer.

Saralie Saralie V. Estrito V. Estrito, Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines

Saralie V. Estrito is from Nagcarlan, Laguna, and is a consistent honor student from first year to 4^th year in the tertiary level. Though a young mother, she graduated Cum Laude in Class 2023. She was the Vice-President of their academic organization, Communication Circle, and writer in their student newsletter, The Communicator. Their group won the best in thesis and best student research presenter awards in their department during the 3rd Research Colloquium at Laguna University.

Kathleen Faye J. Decena, Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines

Katleen Faye J. Decena is a native of Sta. Cruz, Laguna who earned a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Communication, won best in thesis and best student research presenter awards in their department during the 3rd Research Colloquium at Laguna University. She is an active member of their academic organization, Communication Circle. She sings, plays volleyball, and plays drums and guitar.

Mariane C. Mercado, Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Laguna University, Philippines

Mariane C. Mercado is from Nagcarlan, Laguna who earned a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Communication, and won best in thesis and best student research presenter during the 3rd Research Colloquium at Laguna University. She has been a passionate student writer since elementary and joined different writing competitions during her high school days. She also completed the internship program at Nagcarlan, Laguna's Office of the Vice Mayor where she worked as an administrative assistant and writer. Doing community service has always been in her heart. She is also an active member of their academic organization, Communication Circle.