Maternal Perceptions of the Importance of Needs and Resources for Children With Asperger Syndrome and Nonverbal Learning Disorders

Abstract

Using an anonymous, mailed survey, this study examined the perceptions of 404 mothers on the availability and the importance of various resources for their children With Asperger syndrome (AS) or a nonverbal learning disorder (NLD). A significant number of mothers (20% to 30%) reported that pragmatics training, social skills training, smaller classes, or a trained aide in the classroom Were not available to their child. The mothers Who had tried these resources perceived them to be very helpful. A number of mothers Were not using many of the available educational and mental health services in their communities. The helpfulness of a particular resource Was dependent on Whether the child received it at a younger age. Implications for educators are reviewed.

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