Parent perspectives on augmentative and alternative communication in Sri Lanka

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Date

2022

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Volume Title

Publisher

Williams and Wilkins

Abstract

Parental support is an important part of introducing an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system to a child. Professionals providing AAC services to children with complex communication needs should practice family-centered service provision. The aim of this study was to explore Sri Lankan parents' perspectives on AAC and their lived experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 parents of children with complex communication needs. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the findings, with the following themes identified: (a) External Systems, (b) Impact on the Family, (c) Impact on the Child, and (d) Communication (including AAC). Findings from this study provide important information for speech-language therapists providing services to families from low- and middle-income countries. In particular, parents reported several positive aspects of AAC. However, parents also reported challenges, including speech-language therapist's lack of knowledge of and training in AAC.

Description

indexed in MEDLINE.

Keywords

Augmentative and alternative communication, low- and middle-income countries, parents’ perspectives.

Citation

Augmentative and Alternative Communication.2022;38(3):173-183. [Epub 2022 Oct 26]

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