Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Barragan, Armando

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that affects an individual’s communication, social interactions, and behavior. Approximately 1.7% of children in the United States are diagnosed with ASD. Families raising children with ASD face significant challenges, including limited support systems, caregiver fatigue, and financial strain. These difficulties increase the likelihood of maltreatment, leading to higher rates of children with ASD being referred to Child Welfare Agencies. Once involved in the system, children with ASD often encounter difficulties in finding appropriate long-term foster or kinship placements, which can result in high rates of placement instability. This research seeks to identify and analyze the gaps in the child welfare system in terms of the care and treatment of children with ASD. The study will utilize interviews completed by social workers and caregivers to assess placement stability and the adequacy of services provided to children with ASD. Findings from the proposed study will help with the development of more effective interventions and informed policies that are tailored towards the needs of children with ASD. The expected findings will also be beneficial in better equipping social workers with appropriate intervention and prevention strategies when assisting caregivers and children with ASD. The findings of the proposed study will have implications in exploring the most effective way in assisting foster care children with ASD

Download

Included in

Social Work Commons

Share

COinS