Exploring Research Methodologies in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Summary of the provided content: The assignment consists of 18 research articles and a book chapter, primarily focused on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), its diagnosis, treatment, and related issues. The papers cover various aspects of ASD, including early childhood immunizations, health beliefs about preschool immunizations among Somali women, employment opportunities for individuals with high-functioning autism, and the challenges faced by minority-language mothers of children with ASD. Additionally, there are articles on the importance of evidence-based practices, social research methods, and nano-photocatalytic materials. The content provides a comprehensive overview of various disciplines, including education, health sciences, psychology, and physical oceanography.

Running head: THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE
UK
The Impact of Autism on the Somali Community in the UK
Name of the Student:
Name of the University:
Author’s Note:

1THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Acknowledgement
Thank you to all of those who have helped listened and encouraged me throughout this study. I
am indebted to my supervisor ……………………. whose guidance, advice and patience have
been immeasurable. My sincere thanks to all members of the…………… [Mention your
university/college name], both staff and students, whose continuous support have made this
thesis possible.
I would like to thank all of the participants in the study: students, teachers, and Local Education
Authorities, for the time and help given throughout. Without their participation, this research
would not have been possible. In this context, I am also thankful to them, whose research work
helped me to execute this paper well.
Finally, I thank my family, without whom this thesis would not have been started or completed!
Your encouragement and support have never faltered; thank you.

2THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Abstract
Literature review is aimed towards evaluating the impact of autism on the Somali
community in the UK. The review evaluates the increasing number of autistic children among
the Somali community. Secondary research method and data collection technique has been used
for this research. The research found that the ignorance among the people is the main reason of
increasing number of autistic children in the Somali community in the UK. The research aim
towards evaluating the perceptions of autism along with evaluating the impact of autism on the
parents and the children. Additionally, research also emphasizes on providing suitable
recommendations for increasing awareness for among the people. According to the secondary
analysis, it has been found that both the autistic children and the parents encounter issues in daily
life. Moreover, the children and the parents lack sufficient support and trust dealing with autism.
Lack of adequate knowledge among the Somali community has minimized the exposure of the
research on the particular topic.

3THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction....................................................................................................................9
1.0 Introduction.......................................................................................................................9
1.1 Structure of the Professional Project...................................................................................10
1.2 Background of the Research................................................................................................11
1.3 Problem Statement...............................................................................................................12
1.4 Research Rationale..............................................................................................................12
1.5 Aim of the Review...............................................................................................................13
1.6 Research Objectives.............................................................................................................13
1.7 Summary..............................................................................................................................14
Chapter 2: Literature Review.........................................................................................................15
2.0 Introduction..........................................................................................................................15
2.1 Conceptual framework.........................................................................................................15
2.2 Autism..................................................................................................................................16
2.3 Causes of autism..................................................................................................................16
2.4 Somali community...............................................................................................................17
2.5 Autism in Somali community..............................................................................................18
2.6 Factors causing high rate of autism in Somali community..................................................19
2.7 Views of Somali community on mental illness...................................................................19

4THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
2.8 Treatment programs for Autistic children...........................................................................21
2.9 Impact of Autism on the children........................................................................................22
2.10 General risk factors for Autism.........................................................................................23
2.11 Impact of Autism on the family.........................................................................................25
2.14 Conclusion.........................................................................................................................26
Chapter 3: Methodology................................................................................................................28
3.0 Introduction..........................................................................................................................28
3.1 Research Outline..................................................................................................................28
3.3 Research Philosophy............................................................................................................29
3.3.1 Justifying the selection of interpretivism philosophy.......................................................30
3.4 Research Approach..............................................................................................................30
3.4.1 Justifying the selection of deductive approach.................................................................31
3.5 Research Design..................................................................................................................31
3.5.1 Justifying the selection of descriptive design...................................................................32
3.6 Research Strategy................................................................................................................33
3.6.1 Justifying the selection of case study research strategy....................................................33
3.7 Data collection technique....................................................................................................34
3.7.1 Justifying the selection of secondary data collection technique.......................................34
3.8 Data Analysis Technique.....................................................................................................35
3.8.1 Justifying the selection of thematic analysis....................................................................36

5THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
3.9 Ethical Considerations.........................................................................................................36
3.10 Accessibility Issues............................................................................................................36
3.11 Inclusion and exclusion criteria.........................................................................................37
3.12 Keywords and database used.............................................................................................38
3.13 Research Limitations.........................................................................................................38
3.14 Conclusion.........................................................................................................................38
Chapter 4: Analysis and Findings..................................................................................................40
4.0 Introduction..........................................................................................................................40
4.1 Presentation of the Emergent Themes.................................................................................40
Theme 1: Perceptions of Autism in the Somali community......................................................40
Theme 2: Impact of Autism on the children of the Somali community....................................41
Theme 3: Challenges faced by the autistic children..................................................................43
Theme 4: Impact of Autism on parents and family...................................................................45
Theme 5: Challenges faced by the parents of the autistic children...........................................47
Theme 6: Lack of significant research for enhancing the lives of the autistic children............48
Theme 7: Role of the government in helping the autistic children of the Somali community in
the UK........................................................................................................................................49
4.2 Conclusion...........................................................................................................................49
Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendations..............................................................................51
5.0 Conclusion...........................................................................................................................51

6THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
5.1 Linking with Objectives......................................................................................................52
5.2 Recommendations................................................................................................................54
5.3 Future Scope of the research...........................................................................................55
References......................................................................................................................................56

7THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
List of Figures
Figure 1: Conceptual Framework..................................................................................................15
Figure 2: ASD prevalence.............................................................................................................17
Figure 3: Research Onion..............................................................................................................28
Figure 4: Rate of children suffering from learning difficulty due to Autism................................42
Figure 5: Rate of unemployment among autistic individuals........................................................43

8THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
List of Table
Table 1: Research Outline.............................................................................................................28

9THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.0 Introduction
This chapter briefly introduces the rate of autism among the Somali children living in the
UK. Based on the aim of the research, the chapter also sheds light on the formulated research
questions and objectives.
Autism is one of the most common diseases that is diagnosed in children. Due to the disease,
the children suffer challenges in terms of communication, learning and leading a normal life.
Alongside, the family and the parents of the autistic children are also affected socially,
psychologically and financially (Taylor, Jick and MacLaughlin, 2013). In the UK, the number of
autistic children within the Somali community has been increasing over the years (Barrett et al.
2012). Due to lack of adequate knowledge, the parents are unable to understand the symptoms of
having an autistic child thereby, delaying the diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, the fear of
having an autistic child also restricts the parents to treat their child thereby, increasing the stigma
and fear (Barrett et al. 2012). Therefore, lack of adequate research and studies has led to
ignorance and awareness among the people that eventually hampers their well-being and living
style.
This study aim towards identifying the knowledge gap in order to analyze the impact of
autism on the Somali community in the UK. As a result, the research includes comparative and
substantive findings on the challenges encountered by the families of Somali origin with autistic
children in the UK as well as establishing the barrier to support service. This study explores the
impact of autism on the Somali community living in the UK.

10THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
1.1 Structure of the Professional Project
The proposed structure of the professional project includes five chapter namely
introduction, literature review, research methodology, data analysis, discussions and conclusion
and recommendation.
Chapter 1: This chapter includes the detailed background information about the research topic
thereby, introducing it to the readers. Additionally, the chapter also includes the issues based on
which the research will be conducted and the significance of conducting the research. Based on
the problem and the significance of the research, the research aim, objectives and questions are
formulated.
Chapter 2: This background literature chapter of the research emphasizes on dealing with
previously existing studies thereby, helping the readers to develop better and in-depth knowledge
and understanding of the research topic. The chapter also identifies the independent and
dependent variables and includes theories and models related to the variables.
Chapter 3: This chapter highlights the research methods used by the researcher while collecting
and analyzing data for the research. This chapter also contains the justifications of selecting the
particular research methods for data collection and analysis.
Chapter 4: This chapter highlights the analysis of the data collected by using various methods
and methodological tools. Additionally, the data collected are presented through graphical
representations or analyzed based on secondary data collection.
Chapter 5: This chapter contains the conclusion deduced from the analyzed data along with
suggesting suitable recommendations based on the conclusions.

11THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
1.2 Background of the Research
The UK houses the largest number of the Somali community in the Europe and is a critical
group that is considered for the health and well-being of the community (Buescher et al. 2014). It
is evident from the various secondary resources that the rate of autism among the Somali
community is increased thereby, imposing a major concern (Colvert et al. 2015). The challenges
characterizing the autistic children such as communication problem, speech problem, abnormal
behavior and health issues gives rise to stigma within the community. Therefore, it is required to
have a general overview along with investigating the impact of autism on the children of the
Somali community. Additionally, the community encounters particular challenges such as social
isolation, abnormal behavior and ineffective communication in terms of social, cultural and
psychological aspect (Karst and Van Hecke, 2012). However, as argued by Nealy et al. (2012),
understanding the cultural perspectives in terms of autism helps in raising and spreading
awareness among the parents. This allows the parents and the families to receive support and
encouragement for seeking help thereby, reducing the stigma.
Awareness, support, and interventions are in terms of autism and services are necessary
among all the communities. As commented by Tipton and Blacher (2014), suitable support and
awareness are required due to increasing numbers of autism children among the Somali
community, as the children adequate support to access. However, the increasing numbers of
autistic children are not influencing the support mechanism positively. Therefore, it is necessary
to have a holistic approach to the impact of autism on the Somali community in the UK. The UK
government has passed the Autism Act, 2009 in order to counter attack the negative implications
such as social exclusion, avoid discrimination and provide regular services towards the autistic

12THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
individuals (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). The UK government has also taken
initiatives for improving the interventions and measures for ensuring the lifestyle of the autistic
children. Therefore, having a deeper understanding of how autism is most prevalent among the
children of the Somali community will help in developing critical interventions including health,
education and social awareness. This will help the parents in having sufficient knowledge in
bringing up the autistic children (Dillenburger et al. 2013).
1.3 Problem Statement
It has been found that autism has affected children irrespective of culture and race
(Cappadocia, Weiss and Pepler, 2012). Apparently, there are various misconceptions and
misunderstandings regarding the Somali community living in the UK (Gerrish, Naisby and
Ismail, 2013). This is due to inadequate research findings and studies about autism among the
children in the Somali community living in the UK. Due to lack of an adequate number of
studies, the Somali community encounters various barriers, challenges, and lack of support from
the community. There are increased numbers of autistic children among the Somali community
living in the UK without any clear explanation of the condition (Hassan, 2012). The cultural
perspective might have a significant impact on the interventions and measures for improving the
well-being of the autistic children. Additionally, ignorance among the Somali community in
terms of autism leads to the late diagnosis of the disease among the children.
1.4 Research Rationale
Presently, the children of the Somali community living in the UK are suffering from
autism. Due to the disease, the children are encountering serious issues in terms of societal and
psychological thereby, hampering their social inclusion (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman,
2013). Therefore, the children are facing social exclusion. Moreover, the interventions used for

13THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
treating the autistic children are failing to enhance their life. Additionally, the parents of the
autistic children are also being affected (Christensen et al. 2016).
It is an issue because lack of sufficient recommendation to enhance the lifestyle and well-
being of the children of Somali background suffering from autism is noticed. Moreover, lack of
adequate finding in terms of the impact of autism on the children of the Somali community living
in the UK is hampering in shedding light on the necessary interventions to enhance the life of the
autistic children and their family. This is because of inadequate studies emphasizing on the
challenges affecting the community (Blaurock-Busch et al. 2012).
It is an issue now because the families of autistic Somali children lack necessary support
and interventions that offer the best quality of care for the autistic children. Moreover, the
autistic children are lacking specific care and learning opportunities that might have been helpful
for enhancing their life (Blumberg et al. 2013).
This research sheds light on the fact that this cannot be achieved solely and that effort
from the parents, society, healthcare institutions along with the government is required for
ensuring a holistic growth for the autistic children of the Somali community living in the UK
(Braunschweig et al. 2012).
1.5 Aim of the Review
The aim of the research is to explore the impact of autism on the Somali community
living in the UK.
1.6 Research Objectives
The main objectives of the research include:

14THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
 To analyze the nature of autism among children of Somali origin in the UK
 To outline the challenges encountered by the parents of autistic Somali children in the
UK
 To critically evaluate the impact of autism on the children of the Somali community in
the UK
 To suggest recommendations for improving the interventions in order to enhance the
lives of autistic children of Somali origin in the UK
1.7 Summary
In this chapter, it can be summarized that children suffering from autism of Somali origin
and their parents in the UK are encountering severe issues in terms of social and psychological.
This suggests that the interventions for treating and spreading awareness about autism need to be
improved for the better living experience.

15THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.0 Introduction
This chapter highlights the various concepts and perspectives about autism among the
Somali culture. The chapter also highlights the concept of autism and its impact on the individual
and their family. Due to such extensive study and research about autism and the perspective of
the Somali community, the readers develop a deep understanding of it from the research. This
chapter also evaluates lack of extensive research about autism thereby, hampering treatment and
intervention within the Somali community.

16THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Autism
Impact of Children:
Learning difficulty
Communication issues
Poor brain development
Autism perception in the Somali community
Incorrect diet
More vaccinations
Gods’s will
Evil spirit
Impact of the Somali parents:
Depression
Anxiety
Stress
Financial instability
Treatment
Speech therapy
Physical activities
Social Skills Claases
2.1 Conceptual framework
Figure 1: Conceptual Framework
(Source: Author)
2.2 Autism
According to Lloyd, MacDonald and Lord (2013), autism is an improper development of
the human brain. Several children all over the world have been suffering from autism and they
have been incapable of developing social relationships and have shown issues in expressing
themselves in terms of speech and language. Autism is a disability that prevails lifelong and
influences the communication power of an individual, as they are unable to relate themselves

17THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
with the society. The individuals suffering from autism visualize the world in a different manner
(Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). Autism is not a disease instead; it is a disability,
which has no cure. Autism involves several mental health and learning issues because of which
such individuals require help and support. Everyone person out of hundred in the UK is affected
by autism (Timothy et al. 2013). Individuals belonging to different countries and religions can be
autistic, however; the numbers of autistic men are more than the number of autistic women, that
is around 59% women suffers from autism whereas 69% men suffers autism (Pellicano,
Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). Anxiety is the most common characteristics of autistic people.
This is because they see the world in a different manner and face issues in understanding others.
It is not necessary for an autistic person to look disabled instead; they appear to be normal people
with different mental capabilities (Daniels and Mandell 2014).
2.3 Causes of autism
According to Timothy et al. (2013), autism is a result of genetic, cognitive and neural disorders.
However, it is evident that autism is a complex disorder, which is caused not only due to one
reason but is a result of several genetic and brain disorders. Genetic factors have been the major
causes of autism. The combination formed from the genes of the mother and the father causes
autism in the child. Several other causes are epigenetics, prenatal environment, perinatal
environment and postnatal environment. The causes involve improper nutrition, stress, drugs,
diabetes, bleeding, and thyroid among parents (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013).
2.4 Somali community
According to Ghebre et al. (2015), more than 125,000 Somalis live in the United
Kingdom. The Somalis arrived in the UK after the Civil War in Somalia, which occurred in the
early 1990’s. Somalis represent one of the largest ethnic minorities in the world. The community

18THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
has been living in isolation since immigration. However, in the recent years, some importance
has been given to them and their views have been accepted in the nation. However, as argued by
Hambly and Fombonne (2012), the Somali community faces several issues such as stress,
anxiety and lost confidence as they had their own land, property, job and were financially strong
before the Civil war but now they suffer from poverty. As a result of poverty, the Somali
community lacks the proper education and knowledge, which has led to lack of awareness
among them especially in terms of health care (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). In the
recent years, there have been several changes in the community as they have started focusing on
education. A large number of Somalis have completed their higher education and have become
successful businesspersons. In spite of being highly qualified, the people of the Somali
community lack adequate awareness and knowledge about autism and measures to prevent them.
The people of the Somali community still consider the age old believe of being mentally ill rater
than using their education and qualification to determine autism (Pellicano, Dinsmore and
Charman, 2013).
2.5 Autism in Somali community
According to Wolff and Madlon-Kay (2014), several reports have shown that the presence of
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the highest in the Somali community in comparison to the
other minority groups of UK.

19THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Figure 2: ASD prevalence
(Source: Fernell et al. 2015, p.65)
Higher rate of autism is noticed among the Somali community because of the prevailing
ignorance within the people. The elders of the Somali community are unable to recognize the
learning delays among the children that make the diseases more prevalent among them. The
Somali people consider autism as mental illness or God’s will or the result of the sins in the
family. Moreover, such mentality and attitude is also visible among the highly qualified people
of the Somali community (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). Due to the reasons, higher
rate of autism is found among the Somali community rather than other communities.
2.6 Factors causing high rate of autism in Somali community
According to Patrick and Ames (2014), several social and cultural factors have resulted in
the increase in the rate of autism in the Somali community. The word ‘autism’ was new for the
Somali community and they were not aware of autism. However, later on, the Somali community

20THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
began to link autism with mental disability and illness due to ancestral belief. However, as
argued by Hambly and Fombonne (2012), it was the lack of awareness about autism that the
parents belonging to Somali community did not avail the proper treatment for their autistic
children. The Somali community is very religious and orthodox as they accepted what Allah
gave them. Many of the parents either do not accept that their child is autistic out of shame or
lack the understanding of autism. The autistic behaviors of the children in this community were
not accepted by the community members, which resulted in the parents hiding their children
(Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). A majority of the Somali people does not accept that
their child is autistic; instead, they believe that their children would become normal human
beings when they grow up. This is because the people of the Somali community are afraid of
being socially excluded. Another major reason behind the high rate of autistic children in Somali
community is their poverty and different language. There is no word like ‘autism’ in their
language and they lack the appropriate education (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013).
Poverty and lack of education have led to their unawareness about the diseases and the proper
vaccinations and treatments. Inadequate vaccinations and improper health conditions of the
parents lead to higher chances of autism in the Somali children (Fernell et al. 2015).
2.7 Views of Somali community on mental illness
Lack of studies has been found that in terms of investigating the viewpoint, mindset and
perspectives of the Somali population on mental disorders and illness. According to Henning-
Smith et al. (2013), the Somali culture has is stigmatized due to mental illness. As a result, any
type of mental illness is not accepted in the Somali culture. Additionally, due to the stigmatized
approach of mental illness within the Somali community, the families even deny of having a
mental illness (Warfa et al. 2012). Therefore, a person with mental illness in the Somali

21THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
community poses a high risk of being shunned from their society. Due to the fear of stigma, the
individual with autism and the family encounters social exclusion (Beatson 2013). Studies have
been conducted to explore the Somali concepts about mental illness thereby, determining the
beliefs that influence the delivery of mental illness services within the population.
As mentioned by Gerrish, Naisby and Ismail (2012), mental illness is also considered as
God’s will in the Somali community. Therefore, any symptoms of mental illness are not
considered for treatment or any therapeutic intervention. The Somali community might not find
the western methods of treatment effective because of their religious conceptualization of mental
disorders (Lamb et al. 2012). Instead, the Somali community prefers readings and prayers for
treating mental disorders Shefer et al. (2013). The elders and the family members act as
counselors to treat mental disorder. In addition to, the Somali culture thinks physical, emotional
and mental disorders to be interrelated due to which they generally visit general practitioners or
family doctors for consultation (Crosby 2013). However, as argued by Hambly and Fombonne
(2012), as the people of the Somali community are not using knowledge, the rate of autism
among the children of the Somali community is increasing. The people of the community still
believe autism is a result of God’s will or the sins of their ancestors that is reflected in the
present generation.
2.8 Treatment programs for Autistic children
Autism is considered as a mental disorder that has no permanent cure but can be
improved by various treatments such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, ABA therapy,
social skills classes, psychologists sessions, and social skills classes. As commented by Reichow
(2012), occupational therapy is defined as the science and art of challenging individuals’ effort in
selected activities. Therefore, occupational therapy is used for treating autistic people in order to

22THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
restore and enhance individual performance. However, as argued by Hambly and Fombonne
(2012), it is prevalent that autistic children encounter issues in concentrating in particular activity
and completing it accurately. Therefore, occupational therapy aim towards challenging the
efforts of the autistic children. Continuously challenging autistic children will help in improving,
enhancing and restoring the individual performance.
However, as contradicted by Rutter and Schopler (2012), speech therapy is a
rehabilitative procedure undertaken in order to help individuals with communication disorders. It
has been found the speech disorders encountered by the autistic children are much more difficult
than straightforward language difficulties. Children suffering from autism generally prefer
remaining in private world. This is because of the language and speech difficulties they face. The
speech therapy specialist works in close association with parents, family, and schoolteachers of
the autistic children. The speech therapy technique includes electronic talkers, signing or typing
along with using pictures as alternatives for communicating (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman,
2013). As a speech therapist, the specialist teaches the autistic children to communicate by
singing. As commented by Wong et al. (2015), songs are composed to match the rhythm thereby,
reducing stress and flow of the sentence. However, as criticized by Shamsuddin et al. (2012), the
speech specialist use messaging or exercising of lips or facial muscles for improving the overall
speech is more effective.
The speech therapy helps the autistic children to articulate the words well along with
teaching them to communicate well both verbally and non-verbally. Improving the
communication skills by speech therapy helps the autistic individuals to exchange ideas,
establishing relationships thereby, facilitating social inclusion (Volkmar et al. 2014). It is
suggested that speech therapy is effective if it is started as early as possible. However, as argued

23THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
by Hambly and Fombonne (2012), language delay among the children with autism is evident as
early as 18 months. Therefore, the effectiveness of the speech therapy is best determined if
initiated at an early age. Therefore, implementing speech therapy for the children with autism
will help in mitigating the issues encountered by the children from the initial stages.
2.9 Impact of Autism on the children
Autism is a developmental disorder that is generally characterized by difficulty in
communication, learning and repetitive activities. The onset of autism among children is
generally before 3 years. However, no pathological evidence has been identified for the onset of
autism. As commented by Hayes and Watson (2013), autistic children fail to interact with the
surrounding environment the way normal babies and children would do. The autistic children
might be hesitant in responding to their name along with making eye contact, smile and wave at
surrounding people. However, as argued by Hambly and Fombonne (2012), the behavioral
characteristic is not found among autistic children thereby, making it hard for the autistic
children to learn skills such as interpreting the facial expression, taking a turn and initiating and
continuing conversation.
However, as argued by Hambly and Fombonne (2012), autistic children majorly suffer
social difficulties thereby, restricting them to interact with the social environment. The autistic
children face difficulty in social interaction due to speech problems. Other symptoms that
hamper the autistic children to interact socially are hand flapping, finger flicking, headbanging
and spinning in a circle. Such abnormal behaviors prevent other children to interact with the
autistic children thereby, hampering social relationships (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman,
2013). The developmental rate of autism children is different due to which they do not develop
skills as normally growing children. As a result, the autistic children might learn one or two

24THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
words each month. Due to decreased developmental rate, the autistic children encounter issues in
mixing socially, communicating with the surrounding environment. Aggressive behavior is one
of the behavioral characteristics among autistic children (Cryan and Dinan 2012). Due to the
autistic behavior of the children, they face social exclusion. Moreover, decreased rate of
development, learning difficulty and speech issues hampers the growth and development of the
autistic children both personally and professionally (Davis et al. 2013). As commented by
Anderson et al. (2012), children with autism find it difficult to see things from the perspective of
other individuals. As a result, autistic children might find it difficult that their family and siblings
might have distinct desires and beliefs from them. Additionally, predicting and understanding the
behavior of other individuals might also be difficult for autistic children. Seeing things from
other people’s perspective is a necessary social skill that is evident in autistic children (Albrecht
et al. 2013).
2.10 General risk factors for Autism
Several risk factors due to autism have been noticed due to lack of proper reason of
developing autism. Male gender is more vulnerable to autism compared to females. According to
Sullivan et al. (2012), autism is diagnosed in males three times more than that in the females.
Therefore, while autism is more evident within males, diseases such as mental retardation are
evident in females. However, as argued by Guinchat et al. (2012), prenatal factors such as
premature birth are one of the major reasons for developing autism within children. During
premature birth, the child is born with incomplete development. The child lacks adequate and
sufficient development that needs to be completed in the womb before birth (Ravindran and
Myers 2012). Therefore, once the child is born, the rest of the development is either restricted or
slowed down. In spite of providing the artificial environment, the child has a high tendency of

25THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
developing autism. Additionally, prenatal factors such as low birth weight, Apgar score, and
cesarean birth might influence the development of autism among children (Corominas et al.
2014).
As commented by Lyall, Schmidt and Hertz-Picciotto (2014), the age of the mother is
also an established risk factor for developing autism among children. However, the actual age of
the mother that develops the risk of an autistic child is still unknown. It has been seen that
mothers above the age of 35 or 40 have higher risks of having an autistic child. Apart from the
maternal age, the paternal age also imposes the potential threat of having an autistic child. From
the secondary resources, it can be said that paternal age of over 35 would be a risk factor for
developing autism within the child (Lee 2014). However, as criticized by LaSalle (2013), family
history possesses more threat of developing autism among children. This is because the unborn
child has higher chances of developing autism due to its presence in the family (Yu 2013). The
autism-dominating gene might be expressed within the child due to its presence in the family
even if the parents are not autistic.
2.11 Impact of Autism on the family
It is difficult to comprehend the stress encountered by the parents and family of autistic
children. As commented by Karst and Van Hecke (2012), having an autistic child signifies the
loss of parental dreams for the children. Additionally, having an autistic child in the family also
signifies the loss of relationships within the family. It is evident that parents of autistic children
are more vulnerable to physical, social and emotional problems. It has been seen that parents
with other special needs encounter fewer issues and challenges compared to parents with autistic
children. This is because the autistic children face disturbance with sleeping patterns along with
self-harming behavior (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). Moreover, lack of emotional

26THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
and social reciprocity is also a reason for concern for the parents with an autistic child. Mothers
face more issues and problems compared to the fathers of the autistic children, as the mothers are
involved with the child throughout the day. As mentioned by Schopler and Mesibov (2013),
symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress and constantly elevated emotions are commonly
noticed in parents with autistic children (Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, 2013). The
permanency of the autistic behavior of the children is the major reason of stress within the
parents of an autistic child. Alongside, the fact that the behavior of the child will be judged by
the society is another reason of emotional and psychological stress of the parents of autistic
children. The parents have to advocate for the behavior of their children continuously thereby,
leading to depression.
At certain instances, having an autistic child is financially difficult for the family.
Treating autism involves a wide range of therapies and interventions that require a huge amount
of money that are sometimes unavailable at NHS for the Somali community. Therefore, this
imposes a financial burden on the parents, as they have to continue the treatment for the overall
improvement of the child. Discontinuation of treatment for the autistic child might deteriorate
their health thereby, leading to the severe health complication. This would eventually increase
the financial burden. The parents find it difficult to fulfill the essential requirements of the family
and the other children, as they have continued the treatment of the autistic child. Moreover, the
parents of the autistic children are stressed and concerned regarding the future of the child.
Therefore, the parents are worried about the security and care of the autistic child in their
absence (Nealy et al. 2012). Due to this, the parents of the Somali community are
psychologically stressed and face anxiety.

27THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
2.14 Conclusion
In this chapter, it can be concluded that autism results in decreased developmental rate
among children that leads to various issues and challenges for the children both personally and
socially. Symptoms of autism are generally evident since 18 months within the children. In the
Somali community, autism is considered as God’s will and possession of ghosts and evil spirits
and is treated by prayers and readings. Additionally, autism possesses severe challenges both on
the child and on their parents. The autistic child suffers several issues in terms of
communication, social relationships and behaviors. Due to the behavioral issues, the parents of
the autistic children suffer physical, emotional, psychological and financial challenges.
Moreover, ignorance about the disease among the elders of the Somali community leads to issues
in terms of identifying the symptoms and treatment thereby, hampering the both physical and
psychological state of the child. Therefore, autism is directly affecting the children of the Somali
community living in the UK due to lack of ignorance.

28THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Chapter 3: Methodology
3.0 Introduction
Different methodological tools combine to form research methodology that is implemented by
the researchers in order to fulfill the research aim, objectives and questions. A systematic
approach is provided by research methodology that allows the researchers to explore the research
topic by using suitable methods. In addition to, research methodology also provides an
opportunity for the researchers to ascertain a particular phenomenon by using the different
methodological tools. In this chapter, the researcher analyzes the various methodological tools in
terms of philosophical stances, approach, design along with data collection and analysis
techniques. The researcher also provides appropriate justifications for selecting the particular
methodological tool according to the topic.
3.1 Research Outline
Method HeadChosen methodology
Research DesignDescriptive
Research PhilosophyInterpretivism
Research ApproachDeductive
Data Collection processSecondary
Data Analysis processThematic Analysis
Table 1: Research Outline
(Source: Author)

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According to the above table, it can be said that the researcher has used interpretivism
philosophy along with descriptive design and deductive approach. The researcher has conducted
the research solely based on secondary data that is collected related to the topic. Moreover, the
researchers have developed themes in accordance with the research objectives and questions
thereby, conducting a thematic analysis. A literature review is conducted based on which the
appropriate research methods are implemented.
3.3 Research Philosophy
The three most widely used research philosophies include interpretivism, positivism, and
pragmatism. As mentioned by Knobe and Nichols (2013), the concept of positivism philosophy
is based on the quantifiable observations. Therefore, based on the quantifiable observations the
statistical analysis is conducted in case of the positivism philosophy. The one and only method of
verifying the positivism philosophy is by using scientific testing thereby, helping in validating
the truth. However, the use of positivism philosophy restricts the researcher in collecting and
interpreting the data towards the particular research objectives (O’Gorman, Lochrie and Watson
2014). The pragmatism philosophy is the combination of both positivism and interpretivism
philosophy. The use of pragmatism philosophy is not facilitated, as this complicates the entire
research. According to Yusuf, Adams and Dingley (2014), the concept of interpretivism
philosophy allows the researchers to consider the viewpoints of various other researchers on the
similar topic. Therefore, the researcher is able to consider the perspectives of many researchers
by emphasizing on the meaningful observations. In this case, the researchers focus on studying
the human nature rather than considering the logical and scientific explanation.

30THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
3.3.1 Justifying the selection of interpretivism philosophy
In the case of the current research, the researcher has used interpretivism philosophy.
This is because the use of interpretivism philosophy has allowed the researcher to consider the
viewpoints and perspectives of several other researchers. Therefore, considering the different
perspectives and opinions allowed the researcher to develop a broad idea and concept about the
research topic from the past and using it in the current research (Walliman 2015).
Implementation of interpretivism philosophy also allowed the researcher to collect data
from various secondary resources from the past. This helped the researcher to analyze the reason
why less study and research has been conducted about the impact of autism on the Somali
community people. This understanding allowed the researcher to evaluate the effect of fewer
researchers among the Somali community and the adverse consequences.
3.4 Research Approach
Inductive and deductive approaches are the two most widely used research approaches
used by the researchers while conducting the research. As commented by Packard (2017), the
concept of inductive approach highlights on finding new patterns and approaches in terms of the
research topic. In the case of an inductive approach, the researcher has to develop new theories
and concepts based on the observations. As a result, the focus of the researcher shifts from
research questions to observations and from description to analysis. However, there are high
chances that the researcher develops incorrect theories because the observations might be
incorrect. On the other hand, in the case of a deductive approach, the researcher formulates a
hypothesis based on the existing theories and concepts (Sekaran and Bougie 2016). This allows
the researchers to gather information from already existing kinds of literature and make
observations based on it. This mitigates the chances of error while conducting the research.

31THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Making observations based on the previously existing concepts and theories allows the
researchers to predict whether the research is going in the right direction. Therefore, the
researcher can assure if the research objectives are has been fulfilled or not. Additionally, the use
of deductive approach provides an opportunity for the researcher to transform general data into
specific data.
3.4.1 Justifying the selection of deductive approach
In the case of the current research, the researcher has used deductive research approach,
as this goes well with interpretivism philosophy. Secondly, implementing deductive approach
allowed the researcher to conduct the research based on the previously existing theories and
concepts (Pearl 2014). Therefore, using the previously existing concepts and theories has
allowed the researcher to achieve the research objectives and questions. Additionally, the use of
deductive approach allowed the research to transform general data into specific data by aligning
the information obtained with the research topic. In this case, the use of inductive approach
would have been challenging, as the researcher would give to focus more on developing new
concepts and theories. Therefore, the use of deductive approach has been justified (Smith 2015).
3.5 Research Design
Explanatory, exploratory and descriptive are the three most commonly used research
designs used by the researchers while conducting the research (Roberts 2013). The use of
explanatory design of research is done when the researcher has the opportunity to explain the
reasons that are happening on the topic that has been chosen. Additionally, the explanatory type
of research design also helps in forecasting the occurrences that may take place in the future with
respect to the topic of the research (Gale et al. 2013). This type of research design helps the
researcher in formulating the hypothesis, questions along with the objectives of the research.

32THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Apart from that, the design of the research helps the researcher in verifying the different concepts
that are present with respect to the topic so that it can be linked with the topic of the research.
This particular research design also is based on the combination of an explanatory and
exploratory type of designs that are present in the research. According to Choy (2014), the
descriptive type of design that is present in the research study helps in emphasizing on the
description of the characteristics within a target population through the collection of the data.
This type of research design is widely used by the researchers, as it consists of dual
characteristics, which helps the researcher in conducting the research in an efficient manner.
3.5.1 Justifying the selection of descriptive design
The current study of the research will be based on the descriptive design, as it will
provide an opportunity to the researcher in formulating the hypothesis and the topic of the
research by aligning them. It will also help the researcher in gaining deeper insights with respect
to the cause and effect of the rationale of the research, which will help in predicting the
occurrences that will take place in the future. The occurrences that will take place in the future
and the clarification of the rationale cannot be achieved by taking the help of explanatory or the
exploratory type of research design. The researcher will be able to analyze the kinds of literature
that have been provided by different authors in a better way. It will help the researcher in
describing in a better manner the objectives that have been considered in the study by reviewing
the kinds of the literature of the different authors so that it can help him to reach a finite
conclusion. Therefore, the descriptive type of design has been considered by the researcher,
which will enable him to test the hypothesis that has been taken up in the research study (Behdad
et al. 2013).

33THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
3.6 Research Strategy
According to Tong et al. (2012), the most widely used strategies that can be taken up in
the research study are case studies, the action of the research, survey, and interview. The strategy
of research that is related to case study helps in highlighting the studies, which are based on the
factors of real life through the evaluation of behaviors of the individuals based on a particular
topic. With respect to the research that is based on case study, the researcher will rely solely on
the data that is secondary in nature and those that are related to the topic of the research taken by
the researcher. On the contrary, Austin, Jenkins and Hines (2017) had stated that the action of the
research primarily deals in finding the issues that are present in the study of the research. It helps
in identifying the issues so that solutions can be provided, which will help in solving the problem
that is taken in the research process. The survey along with the interviews that are conducted by
the researcher will be done by collecting the data from the participants with respect to the topic
of the research. The interview is a process of collecting the data with respect to the topic of the
research so that it can help in conducting the research in an efficient manner.
3.6.1 Justifying the selection of case study research strategy
The researcher will use the case study strategy in the process of research, as it will help
him in gaining a better idea by analyzing the works that have been done previously by different
authors. The positive point of this research strategy is that it will help the researcher in providing
his own opinion about the topic of the research. The researcher will be able to express the
emotions in his own way with respect to the topic of the research in a better manner. The
drawback of this strategy is that the research study will be based on the works that have been
done previously by various authors. The study will be limited, as the present data will not be

34THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
taken into consideration by the researcher, which might alter the objectives that have been set for
the research (Algozzine and Hancock 2016).
3.7 Data collection technique
The most common type of collecting the data in conducting the research in a successful
manner is through primary or secondary techniques of collecting the data. The secondary method
of collecting the data is done mainly through the journals, books and the help that can be derived
from the internet by the researcher. The researcher does the use of the secondary sources of data,
as it helps them in increasing their knowledge with respect to the topic so that the concept can be
developed in a better manner. The secondary sources help the researcher in understanding the
various models and theories, which are related to the topic that helps in clearing the concept of
the researcher (Houghton et al. 2013). However, the data that is collected on a primary basis is
done with the help of live participants. The primary data that is collected is inclusive of the
quantitative and qualitative techniques of collecting the data. The process of interview that is
done by the researcher is known as the qualitative techniques of collecting data whereas
conducting a survey is known as the qualitative method of collecting the data. The collection of
these data helps the researcher in carrying with the process of research in a better manner so that
a finite conclusion can be reached by linking the responses with the objectives of the research
study (Lawrence and Tar 2013).
3.7.1 Justifying the selection of secondary data collection technique
The secondary data has helped the researcher in reviewing the literature of the previous
authors that are in relation to the topic, which has helped the researcher in gaining a better
knowledge about the topic. The use of the journal articles, books and the various websites has
helped the researcher in continuing with the study of research. The researcher has been able to

35THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
evaluate the effectiveness of autism that has an impact on the children with the United Kingdom.
It will also help the researcher in analyzing the data that are present in the previous studies and
find out the level of impact that it has on the children in the current times. The increase or
decrease in the level of impact can be analyzed in a better way by taking the past studies into
consideration by the researcher (Pitt 2017).
3.8 Data Analysis Technique
The use of the data, which is collected through the primary technique, needs to be
analyzed so that it can help in setting the null or the alternative hypothesis. The data can be
presented with the help of graphs, bar charts and tables. Additionally, the techniques that are
available in analyzing the statistics will help in evaluating the data in an accurate manner. In
most of the cases, it can be seen that the use of the graphs and the charts may be inaccurate in
nature, as the researcher can manipulate the data. As a result of this, most of the values that are
derived from the graphs are incorrect, which leads to inappropriate results. Due to these
problems, the analysis that can be present with the help of statistics is generally preferred (Stage
and Manning 2015).
The researcher will prefer the use of the secondary data, as the data that are already
presented by the previous researchers will help the recent study to proceed in a successful
manner. The data that are already presented by the previous researchers will help the present
study of the research to be conducted in an efficient manner, as the researcher will be able to
compare and contrast the data and analyze the level of impact with the previous studies with
respect to the current research (Thomson and Emery 2014).

36THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
3.8.1 Justifying the selection of thematic analysis
According to Dotoli et al. (2015), the researcher has developed some themes with respect
to the present study, which has helped him in understanding the topic in a better manner. The
analysis of the themes has helped the researcher in understanding the current trend that is present
with respect to the Somalian community that suffers from autism in the United Kingdom.
Vaismoradi, Turunen and Bondas (2013) stated that the researcher has taken the help of the
secondary sources that are available such as the journals and the books on the topic, which has
provided him with a better understanding of the topic. This has helped the researcher in
understanding the present situation with respect to the situation that was present on which the
previous researchers were based.
3.9 Ethical Considerations
While conducting the research, it is essential for the researchers to follow the ethical
considerations. According to the ethical considerations, the data collected by the researcher
needs to use the collected data strictly for academic purposes. The researchers are strictly
prohibited from using the collected data for commercial purposes. Additionally, the researcher is
not supposed to manipulate the data that is collected for conducting the research. The researcher
needs to present the authentic data whether it supports the research or is against the research. The
researcher has to justify the data collected in order to complete the research successfully.
3.10 Accessibility Issues
While conducting the research, the researcher encountered few accessibility issues. Firstly, lack
of adequate data and previous research was a major issue. While conducting the research, the
researchers found that not much research and study has been conducted in order to analyze the
impact of autism on the Somali community. Therefore, the researcher was unable to find latest

37THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
and recent information and data in terms of the impact of autism on the Somali community. Lack
of adequate and recent data thereby hampered the quality of the research to a certain extent.
Moreover, lack of adequate data also forced the researcher to compromise with the research and
the proceedings.
3.11 Inclusion and exclusion criteria
According to Dotoli et al. (2015), the inclusion and the exclusion criteria helps in
recognizing the type of studies that needs to be included while conducting the research thereby,
providing clarity to the research questions. Therefore, the significant step is deciding on the
research question is defined by the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Additionally, the robust
inclusion and exclusion criteria along with a clearly defined research question needs to be
identified. The inclusion and the exclusion criteria need to be implemented in order to filter
research studies that consists the potentiality to answer the research question.
Inclusion Exclusion
The journal used needs to be in English Not primary data
Peer reviewed journals only Does not include all three variables
Autism among the children of the Somali
community
Articles older than 2012
Impact of autism on children and their family Articles not in English
Studies on autism intervention Does not include all the variables
Published since 2012

38THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
3.12 Keywords and database used
In order to gather information for the literature review, the researcher has used particular
database and keywords. For gathering information from the secondary resources, the researcher
has used Google Scholar with specific keywords. The specific keywords used for gathering the
relevant secondary resources include autism, impact of autism, causes of autism, autism among
the Somali community in the UK and therapies for autism. The use of the following keywords
helped in generating relevant hits from which the researcher has used the hits with appropriate
and sufficient information. The relevant hits also provided an opportunity for the researcher to
evaluate critically the opinions and viewpoints of different researchers and present them in
accordance with the research topic.
3.13 Research Limitations
Time and budget were two of the most significant issues that limited the research largely. The
researcher had a limited budget to complete the research successfully. Accessing some of the
secondary data required the researcher to pay a certain amount thereby, restricting the researcher
to get hold of the information from that particular source. It might have been possible that the
source had valuable and relevant information in terms of the research topic but the researcher
could not access it due to budget issues. In addition to, lack of suitable time was also another
issue that limited the research largely.
3.14 Conclusion
In this chapter, it can be concluded that the researcher has provided required justifications of
selecting particular methodological tools. This helped the researcher to achieve the research
objectives thereby, completing the research successfully. The chapter states that the researcher
has used secondary data collection technique for collecting relevant data and information in

39THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
order to evaluate the impact of autism on the Somali community. This chapter also highlights the
ethical considerations that the researcher needs to follow while conducting the research.
Additionally, the chapter sheds light on the accessibility issues and research limitations that have
been encountered by the researcher.

40THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Chapter 4: Analysis and Findings
4.0 Introduction
Based on the research aim, objectives and questions, the impact of autism is in the Somali
community has been analyzed. The themes have been developed both in terms of the parents of
the autistic children and the autistic children. Moreover, data has been gathered in order to
evaluate the role of the UK government in order to enhance the life of the autistic children in the
Somali community. The developed themes helped in understanding the lack of significant
research on the interventions in order to improve the life of the autistic children in the Somali
community living in the UK.
4.1 Presentation of the Emergent Themes
Theme 1: Perceptions of Autism in the Somali community
Autism is considered as a new concept among the Somali community that was consistent with
the various kinds of literature used for gathering relevant data. As mentioned by Gahr et al.
(2014), most of the Somali families have never heard of the word or disease called Autism. Data
also suggest lack of adequate knowledge among the people in the Somali community regarding
However, as criticized by Pellicano, Dinsmore and Charman, (2013), autism that affects the
children and their future. According to the data, it has been seen that the people of the Somali
community have said that they have been recently exposed to the concept of autism.
Nevertheless, with time, as more children were diagnosed with autism, the people of the Somali
community were exposed to it but had no idea and information about the disease and the
consequences (Tomlinson and Redwood 2013).

41THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
As autism is a new concept within the Somali community, the disease has led to
developing various perceptions and theories about the disease without any appropriate
knowledge. As a result, the people of the Somali community have no clue and information of
why their children are getting affected by autism. According to Miller-Gairyn (2015), the people
of the Somali community have been seen to raise questions about the cause of autism and the
reason for their children being affected by autism. Thus, the families have developed their own
theories and concepts regarding their children being affected by autism. However, as criticized
by Perepa (2014), whether the people know about autism or not, the people of the Somali
community think the disease to be the UK phenomenon. The concept of the people in the Somali
community suggests their perception that the disease is caused by some factor related to them
coming to the UK. Therefore, the perception that autism was caused due to migrating to the UK
was most common among the Somali community living in the UK.
However, it has also been seen different types of perceptions are prevalent among the
people in the Somali community. The people of the Somali community say that the reasons of
autism are the diet, the environmental exposure, or the events that occurred in Somali before they
migrated to the UK. The perception of an increased number of autistic children among Somali
community is because they moved from a hot climate to a cold climate. According to the people,
back in the country, they did not have so much of vaccinations. Therefore, the Somali
community also believes the immunization in the UK is a result of increased vaccinations and
immunizations (Perepa, 2014).
Theme 2: Impact of Autism on the children of the Somali community
Autism among children can only be detected since 2 years, as this is the age when the
children start learning and developing. According to Fernell et al. (2015), currently, three to five

42THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
among per 1000 children are diagnosed with autism in the UK. Autism is a developmental
disorder that affects the overall development of the children. Therefore, autism diagnosis is
based on the observations of the behavioral defects noticed among the children. Communication
is the most common defect noticed among the autistic children. However, As argued by Gahr et
al. (2014), speech is delayed in the autistic children that hamper their level and way of
communication. As the symptoms of autism are not understood before 2-3 years, the parents fail
to understand the communication problems within the children. Therefore, communication
impairments affect the abilities of the autistic children both in terms of understanding the
language and in terms of expressing themselves. As the children are unable to express them, they
face difficulty in expressing them to their family.
Additionally, unable to communicate appropriately, the autistic tend to develop
aggressive behavior. This is because they feel their parents do not fulfill their wishes and
demands. As the children are unable to express their desires and wishes appropriately, the
parents are unable to fulfill them. Thus, the family, parents and the siblings have to face to the
aggressive behavior of the autistic children. Due to aggressive behavior and inability to
communicate, the autistic children have fewer people to communicate (Magnusson et al. 2012).
As mentioned by Gahr et al. (2014), sensory issues within the autistic children result in
stereotyped or repetitive behavior. The repetitive behavior includes clapping, flapping, jumping
and rocking that symbolize abnormality in the behavior. For example, if the autistic children are
unable are communicate, they tend to express their feeling through repetitive behavior which
seems to be abnormal for the surrounding people. Children with autism are either hypo or
hypersensitive to sensory stimuli. Thus, autistic children face difficulty in tolerating incredibly
limited amounts of sensory amounts or extreme amounts of sensory inputs.

43THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
However, as criticized by Tomlinson and Redwood (2013), due to autism, the physical
development of the children is also delayed thereby, resulting in lowering the brain activity. Low
brain activity within the children hampers their overall balance and coordination along with
defective muscle tone compared to the normal children. As a result, the autistic children
encounter problems in performing daily activities normally. Moreover, they are highly dependent
on their parents for conducting the daily activities due to their communications issues and delay
in physical development.
Theme 3: Challenges faced by the autistic children
As autistic children face issues in communication, they have limited or lack of verbal
speech. As a result, one of the major challenges faced by the autistic children due to delayed
communication is social exclusion. Speech problem along with behavioral issues such as
repetitive behavior and aggressiveness is abnormal for the surrounding people and children. As
the autistic children are unable to communicate, the normal children tend to exclude them. Due
to the aggressive and repetitive behavior, the parents consider the autistic children a threat for
their children rather than spreading awareness among their children about autism (Ludlow,
Skelly and Rohleder 2012).
Lack of adequate and proper education is highly found among the autistic children. As
the autistic children have communication and learning issues, they are unable to keep track with
the normal pace and level of education.

44THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Figure 4: Rate of children suffering from learning difficulty due to Autism
(Source: Elsabbagh et al. 2012, p.100)
The above graph suggests that a large number of children suffers from learning difficulty
due to which their education is hampered. As the learning process is delayed among the autistic
children, they are unable to learn in normal school. Therefore, their overall educational graph is
disturbed. Moreover, the autistic children face issues in establishing a relationship with the
surrounding children. As the education of the autistic children is delayed, they tend to fall behind
in respect to the rest of the children of their age. The autistic children also lack proper
certification of completing the education (Divan et al. 2012).
It is evident that the rate of employment among the autistic people is much less compared
to the normal people. One of the major reasons of unemployment among the autistic individuals
is lack of adequate and certified education.

45THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Figure 5: Rate of unemployment among autistic individuals
(Source: Vogeley et al. 2013, p.79)
The aforementioned graph suggests that less than 5% of the autistic children are employed. This
is because of the learning and communicating abnormalities noticed within the autistic
individuals, Therefore, the companies do not prefer recruiting autistic individuals, as this
hampers their organizational performance and working environment. A majority of the autistic
individuals lack employment, they have to depend on their parents and family for the rest of their
life. Along with financial issues, physical and mental issues also hamper their living standard
that results in living a dependable life forever (Wehman et al. 2012).
Theme 4: Impact of Autism on parents and family
Parenthood is a lifetime experience for the individuals that they look forward. Family
relationships help in shaping and determining the outcome of individual lives. As commented by
Hayes and Watson (2013), the parents of the autistic children withstand enormous stress in their
lives. An autistic child does not only suggest a loss of parental dreams but it results in a great
deal of isolation and grief. Moreover having an autistic child is financially substantial. This is

46THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
because an autistic child requires special care, nutrition, speech therapist and behavior therapists.
The aforementioned financial expenses contribute to the emotional stress which parents with
autistic child suffers. These lead to significant concerns for parental mental health.
Due to autism, the parents encounter psychological stress, as they live with a child that
has learning and development difficulty. The sources of stress for the parents with an autistic
child are vast. The most significant stress is the permanency of the autistic nature of the child
that results in the child to be dependent on the parents for the entire life. This is the most
significant psychological stress within the parents, as there is no permanent cure for their child.
As the autistic child has behavioral difficulties, the parents tend to suffer psychological stress
such as depression and anxiety (Solomon and Chung 2012).
The society acts extremely judgmental towards the autistic children that psychologically
affect the mindset of the parents. The society tends to exclude the autistic children and their
family due to the prevailing ignorance about autism. It has been seen that the society blames the
parents for having an autistic child thereby, cursing them. Additionally, the society prefers to
maintain distance with autistic children and their family. According to the society, having and
maintaining a relationship with autistic children might hamper the growth of their children. Apart
from the society, even the extended family members of the autistic child prefer to maintain
distance with the family. As a result, the family lacks sufficient mental and psychological
support (Pozo, Sarria and Brioso 2014).
The mental and psychological stress hampers the health of the parents of the autistic
child. Lack of personal and professional support creates negative vibes within the parents. The
parents also find it difficult to maintain a positive environment at home. This is because of the

47THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
prevailing difference between the autistic child and the siblings. The conflict between their own
children worries the parents, as the parents are concerned about the future of their autistic child
(Nealy et al. 2012).
Theme 5: Challenges faced by the parents of the autistic children
The mothers are the ones that spend the majority of their time with the autistic child. This
is because the mothers stay at home with the autistic child the maximum time. The mothers have
to bear with the abnormal behavior of the autistic children. Moreover, the mothers have to
understand the demand of their autistic child and fulfill them accordingly. The mothers have to
sacrifice their expectations, wishes, and life in order to help their autistic child lead their life.
Therefore, the mothers have to withstand more stress compared to the fathers of the autistic child
(Ludlow, Skelly and Rohleder 2012).
As the parents are extremely affected due to the autistic child, their family life is also
extremely hampered. The parents face challenges to maintain a positive living environment at
home due to behavioral issues of the autistic child. Due to repetitive behavior, the siblings and
the autistic child encounters issues in forming a close bond. Moreover, the siblings lack support
for the autistic child that is a major reason of stress for the parents. This is because the parents
are worried about the future of the autistic child. The parents of the autistic child face challenges
in terms of social inclusion and support from the extended family (Wing 2013).
Financial challenge is another major challenge encountered by the parents of the autistic
child. As the phenomenon of autism has no permanent cure, the treatment bears lifelong expense
for the parents of the autistic child. As a result, the parents face difficulty in maintaining a
standard life in the society. The majority of the earning of the parents are expended on taking

48THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
treatments for the autistic child such as speech therapy and behavioral therapy. As parents, they
cannot think of discontinuing the treatment of their autistic child. Therefore, living a standard life
and continuing the treatment of the autistic child simultaneously is extremely difficult for the
parents of the autistic child (Chiri and Warfield 2012).
Additionally, the relationship between the autistic child and their siblings is also a major
reason of stress for the parents with an autistic child. As the siblings have normal growth and
development and can communicate and learn without hesitation, they fail to understand the
difficulty of their autistic child. As a result, a negative relationship is formed between the autistic
child and the siblings that are a matter of worry for the parents in future. Therefore, having an
autistic child is extremely for the parents with respect to financially, physically and
psychologically (Bogdashina 2016).
Theme 6: Lack of significant research for enhancing the lives of the autistic children
Lack of extensive research has been found in terms of the enhancing the life of the
autistic children of the Somali community living in the UK. As commented by McStay et al.
(2014), this is because the people of the Somali community are ignorant in understanding that
their children are suffering from autism. There are various perceptions about autism that are
prevailing among the Somali community. They feel that it is the diet, an excessive number of
vaccinations and events that occurred before they came to the UK are results of increasing
number of autistic children. As they are ignorant, the people of the Somali community do not
come up with the problems that their children and the families are facing. Therefore, officially,
there is few number of children recorded being affected and suffering from autism. This has
limited the scope of research for enhancing the lives of the autistic children within the Somali
community. Moreover, as the parents do not come up with the difficulties the children face along

49THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
with them, researchers are unable to know the potential issues faced by them (Ploog et al. 2013).
Thus, lack of exposure and adequate knowledge has resulted in minimal research in terms of
enhancing the lives of the autistic children.
Theme 7: Role of the government in helping the autistic children of the Somali community
in the UK
The government of UK has been concerned about the increasing number of autistic
children in the country. As the Somali community has migrated in the UK, the government
considers the children as the future of the country. Therefore, having increasing number autistic
children has led to the formulation of Autism Act in 2009. This formulation of the Act was
aimed to make provision about the requirements and needs of the autistic children. As the life of
the autistic children and their parents are difficult in terms of physically, psychologically and
financially, the Act was developed considering the facts. According to the Autism Act, 2009, the
autistic children and the parents are given support financially to a certain extent in order to
combat with the treatment expense. According to the Act, the autistic children are given
educational opportunities according to their level along with ensuring employment when they are
an adult. This provides an opportunity for the autistic children to live an independent life and
contribute to the growth of the country (Ruparelia et al. 2016).
4.2 Conclusion
In this chapter, it can be concluded that the people of the Somali community have huge
misconceptions in terms of autism. They consider autism because of more immunizations, diet,
change of climate and events that happened before moving to the UK are the reasons of their
children being affected by autism. Autism hampers the children in terms of the learning, physical
development and communication due to which they encounter challenges such as education and

50THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
employment. Additionally, the parents of the autistic children also encounter issues physically,
psychologically and financially to live with an autistic child. The analysis suggests that the
government of the UK has developed and implemented legislation for providing equal options
and lifetime security of the autistic children.

51THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendations
5.0 Conclusion
According to the thematic analysis, it can be concluded that autism is a persisting and
permanent disease that affects the learning and development of the children. It has been seen that
the number of children of the Somali community living in the UK has been diagnosed with
autism. However, there is no suitable evidence for understanding the increasing number of
autistic children in the Somali community living in the UK. According to the analysis, it has
been found that there are different conceptions prevailing within the Somali community in terms
of developing autism. The perceptions of the children being diagnosed with autism include their
diet, increased number of vaccinations and the occurrence of the series of events before they
migrated to the UK. The various perceptions suggest that the people of the Somali community
lack adequate knowledge of why the numbers of the autistic children are increasing within the
community.
From the analysis, it can be concluded that it is the ignorance of the people of the Somali
community that is resulting in increasing number of autistic children. The perceptions of
developing autism are completely irrelevant from the perceptions of the people in the Somali
community. Therefore, the parents are unable to understand that delayed development of the
children is due to autism. By the time, the parents are able to understand that something is
abnormal about their child’s behavior; autistic behavior is significantly highlighted within the
children. Due to autism, both the children and the parents encounter distinctive challenges for
their entire life. The children have delayed growth and development in terms of brain and
communication thereby, hampering them physically and physiologically. The issues encountered

52THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
by the children include communication, balancing, and behaviors. As a result, the autistic
children face social isolation, as other children find their behavior and approach threatening and
different. Apart from the children, the parents of the autistic children also encounter challenge
both personally and professionally. The parents mostly face the permanency of the child’s
condition, judgment from the society and lack of support and trust from the family and the
society. Having an autistic child is also financially challenging, as the treatments are expensive
and need to be continued until the last moment for health improvement.
According to the data analyzed, it can be said that not much research has been conducted
for enhancing the life of the autistic children of the Somali community. This is because the
parents are unable to understand that their children are suffering from autism and needs
treatment. Therefore, lack of adequate data has led to minimal research for enhancing the life of
the autistic children of the Somali community.
5.1 Linking with Objectives
Objective 1: To analyze the nature of autism among children of Somali origin in the UK
Objective 1 is linked with theme 1 that highlights the different perceptions of autism
among the people of the Somali community. It has been seen that the people of the Somali
community are unaware of the term autism and the main reason of the disease. The prevalent
perceptions of their children behaving abnormally include problematic diet, increased number of
vaccinations and events that occurred before they migrated to the UK. Additionally, the Somali
community thought it is God's will and evil spirits that have resulted in abnormal behavior of the
children.

53THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
Objective 2: To outline the challenges encountered by the parents of autistic Somali
children in the UK
Objective 2 is linked with theme 4 and theme 5 of the data analysis. According to the
analysis, it can be said along with the children, the parents also face challenges in terms of
having an autistic child. Having an autistic child affects the parents emotionally, physically,
psychologically and financially. As the autistic behavior of the children is permanent, they
parents face judgmental issues from the society. Moreover, the parents lack adequate support and
trust from the society that affects them. Additionally, as autism is a permanent behavior, it incurs
a financial burden on the parents.
Objective 3: To evaluate critically the impact of autism on the children of the Somali
community in the UK
Objective 3 is linked with theme 2 and theme 3 of the data analysis. According to the
themes, it can be said that autism results in the delayed development of the children due to which
they are unable to lead a normal. The autistic children encounter issues such as repetitive
behavior, communication problems, and aggressiveness. Due to the behavioral issues, they face
social exclusion and lack of support within the society. Moreover, delayed growth and
development hampers the education of the autistic children thereby, threatening their
employment. Due to this, they have to lead a dependent life on their parents and the family.
Objective 4: To suggest recommendations for improving the interventions in order to
enhance the lives of autistic children of Somali origin in the UK
Objective 4 is linked with theme 6 and theme 7 of the secondary analysis. According to
the analysis, it can be said that as the people of the Somali community does not come up with the

54THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
issues facing their autistic child, there has been minimal research in this field. Lack of sufficient
data and knowledge has restricted the scope of research in terms of evaluating the impact of
autism on the children of the Somali community. However, the UK government has formulated
and implemented Autism Act, 2009 considering the present and future requirements of the
autistic children and their family.
5.2 Recommendations
 Spread awareness about autism among the Somali community
It can be seen that the people of the Somali community are unaware of the actual concept
autism and methods of treating and curing the disease. The perceptions about autism
among the Somali community are vague and reflects ignorance. Therefore, awareness
about autism is advisable among the Somali community living in the UK. This will help
the parents to understand the symptoms of autism at an early age and undertake measures
for helping their children with appropriate medical interventions. The awareness can be
spread among the Somali community by organizing campaigns and social events. This
will also help in establishing a relationship with the each other in the UK and get
appropriate guidance.
 Treatments for the autistic children
Spreading awareness about autism will help the parents of the Somali community to
decide the appropriate medical intervention for their children based on the level of
autistic behavior highlighted in their child. Moreover, adequate knowledge and awareness
among the parents will also help them in assisting their children at home thereby,

55THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
continuing the care on a regular basis. Additionally, the parents will be able to note the
most significant issues within the children and undertake treatment accordingly.
 Support for the parents with autistic children
The governmental and the non-governmental organizations will have to ensure that the
parents of the autistic children are provided with adequate support and trust from the
society. As parents face challenges on a daily basis because of having an autistic child,
social support and trust will help in combating with the stress. Therefore, awareness
needs to be spread within the entire society.
 Implementation of governmental interventions
According to data collected, it is advisable that the government will have to increase their
interference in terms of spreading awareness within the people of the Somali community.
Therefore, if the government makes it mandatory for the people o attend campaigns and
awareness programs the rate of awareness will increase among the people of the Somali
community, thereby, helping them in controlling the rate of autism.
5.3 Future Scope of the research
As autism is a prevalent issue among the children of the Somali community in the UK,
the scope of future research is extremely high. According to the research, the main cause of
autism among children is still unknown thereby, paving the path for future research.
Moreover, so far minimal research has been conducted to analyze the impact of autism on the
children of the Somali community. Therefore, future research can be conducted in order to
analyze the potential reasons of why the people of the Somali community are hesitant in
reporting autistic children.

56THE IMPACT OF AUTISM AMONG THE SOMALI COMMUNITY IN THE UK
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