Perceived barriers and facilitators in the implementation and use of AAC for children with autism spectrum disorder: an exploratory study from southern India

Purpose Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is still emerging in India, and its use is shaped by multiple contextual factors. This study explored the perceived barriers and facilitators influencing AAC implementation for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from the perspectives of speech-language pathologists (SLPs), special educators, and parents.Methods Forty-two participants - SLPs (n = 27), special educators (n = 10), and parents (n = 5) took part in online semi-structured interviews. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework. Frequency counts were used to capture the prevalence of key ideas.Results Five themes emerged: (1) family and caregiver related factors, (2) professional and training factors, (3) systemic and environmental factors, (4) AAC-related and technological factors, and (5) child-related factors. Major barriers included limited awareness and acceptance among parents, inadequate training for professionals, high device costs, lack of institutional support, and social stigma. Facilitators included parental motivation, professional collaboration, technological innovation, and culturally relevant AAC tools.Conclusions AAC implementation in India is influenced by interrelated personal, professional, and systemic factors. Enhancing AAC training, communication partner education, and inclusive policy initiatives may strengthen adoption and improve outcomes for children with ASD.