Sayyed Ali Samadi, Cemal A Biçak, Hero M Rashid, Roy McConkey
This study examined the challenges faced by refugee parents caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Twenty-two parents participated in a mixed-methods study that included surveys and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed significant challenges, including reduced parental well-being, increased family strain, and limited access to specialized support services. Parental satisfaction with caregiving was correlated with the perceived severity of autism symptoms. Thematic analysis of interviews identified five key domains of challenges: institutional, personal, financial, family, and social. Family cohesion and presence of dependents emerged as protective factors mitigating the negative impacts of displacement. The study concludes that refugee parents caring for children with autism require comprehensive support, including specialized healthcare, psychological support, and financial assistance. The findings are discussed within the broader context of developmental disabilities in humanitarian settings, highlighting both shared challenges and autism-specific needs.