A sociological assessment of the problems experienced by families with autism: The case of Bulancak district

Autism Spectrum Disorder,which is growing in a fast manner every year in the world and Turkey is seen in one of every 65 children in the world. Autism Spectrum Disorder that occurs especially with social interaction and communication problems and repetitive behaviors ans is a lifelong pervasive developmental disorder. The families of individuals with ASD who have difficulties in every sense have difficulty in expressing their problems to reach the necessary authorities. In this study, it was aimed to examine the problems of families with OSB individuals on a sociological basis and to reveal the basic needs and wishes of families with OSB. In the study, a mixed method was applied using qualitative and quantitative data collection tools. In qualitative research in-depth interview technique has been used, and in quantitative research, family needs scale has been used. The population of the study consist of parents of individuals with ASD living in Bulancak district of Giresun province. In this study, it was found that families have serious problems on socio-economic basis, especially education and family communication, and they need significant institutional and social support. KeyWords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, family, needs, problems.