Synapse
⌘+K
Synapse
PulseExploreClubsResearchersJournals
Instagram
HomeClubsExplore
June 12, 2026Open Access

Navigating Fragmented Systems: A Multilevel Analysis of Social Support Among Black Caregivers of Children with Autism

View Full Paper
Ask AI
Bookmark
Share

Authors

CSCarmen Starks

Discussion

Loading...

Member takes

Overview

Qualitative study explores social support experiences of Black caregivers of autistic children, highlighting systemic barriers.

Key Points

  • This research aims to understand how Black caregivers experience social support during the diagnostic process for autism. It examines the factors that influence their access to and utilization of support systems.
  • Utilized secondary qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 23 Black caregivers.
  • Applied a narrative-centered analytic approach, including episode profiling and frameworks like Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological systems theory and intersectionality.
  • Investigated social support experiences across different ecological levels and stages of the diagnostic process.
  • Caregivers often relied on informal and community-based supports due to barriers in formal service systems, including provider dismissal and long wait times.
  • Support experiences varied across ecological levels, with personal relationships impacting initial care access.
  • Coordinated support across systems was rarely reported, indicating caregivers primarily navigated fragmented service systems.

Cite This Study

Carmen Starks (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a2ba3748101cf8926f0233ahttps://doi.org/10.17615/wp16-kr63
View Full Paper
Ask AI
Bookmark
Share

Also Consider

Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context:

  1. 1Partnering With a Purpose: Promoting Equity and Justice for Black Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder2024 · 3 citations
  2. 2“You can’t whoop autism”: Intersectional stigma in the Black community2026
  3. 3Between neuroaffirmation and access: Parents’ experiences of autism caregiving in England2026
  4. 4Through the long dark night: A phenomenological exploration of treatment-seeking experiences for autism in resource-limited settings.2026
  5. 5Support isn't always supportive: Relational and cultural misalignment in black sickle cell disease adult caregiving norms2025