Work

Disparities in Receipt of Early Intervention Services by Toddlers with Autism Diagnoses: an Intersectional Latent Class Analysis of Demographic Factors

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: We examined receipt of general early intervention services and autism-specific specialized services across demographic groups among toddlers with autism diagnoses who were receiving Part C Early Intervention (EI). Latent class analysis (n = 508) identified five demographically distinct subgroups associated with intersecting marginalization and privilege. Analyses of longitudinal parent interviews (n = 225) revealed service receipt disparities across these demographically distinct latent classes; children from White, U.S. born, English-proficient parents with incomes above poverty level received more EI services (M = 12.0 h/week) than other subgroups, with children from Latiné immigrant families receiving the fewest hours (M = 6.9 h/week). Across all groups, average intervention hours were 8.8 h/week. Despite early identification, racial, ethnic, and other sociodemographic disparities were evident in receipt of Part C Early Intervention services, indicating the need to address barriers to equitable care.

Source: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06613-x

Authors: Nora L. Portillo, Looknoo Patcharapon Thammathorn, Luisa María Buitrago, Alice S. Carter, Radley Christopher Sheldrick, Abbey Eisenhower

Institutions: Montclair State University, University of Massachusetts Boston, Salem State University

Language: English

Topic: Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,090