The Role of Parental Literacy in Caring for Children With ASD
Author:
- 3 November 2026
- book chapter
- Published by IGI Global Scientific Publishing
- p. 219-256
Abstract
This chapter examines the role of parental literacy in caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) within multicultural contexts. Per the authors, parental literacy extends beyond basic reading ability to include functional, health, digital, and cultural dimensions that shape caregiving practices, early identification, intervention uptake, and engagement with educational and healthcare systems. Drawing on Ecological Systems Theory, Social Constructivist Theory, Family Systems Theory, and Multicultural Frameworks, this chapter analyses how socio-cultural factors, stigma, language, poverty, and institutional conditions influence parental understanding and participation in ASD care. The discussion explores parent–professional communication, inclusive services, policy environments, and digital access to ASD resources, with selected illustrations from contexts such as Zambia. This chapter concludes that strengthening parental literacy is important for equitable outcomes, family empowerment, and culturally responsive ASD care across diverse settings.Keywords
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