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‘Finding My Tribe’—The Mixed Blessing of Neoliberal Parenting Programmes for Parents of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

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  • Keely Burch-Havers

    (Millfields Inspired, Plymouth PL1 3HQ, UK)

  • Jon Ord

    (School of Education, Plymouth Marjon University, Plymouth PL6 8BH, UK)

Abstract

This paper explores the experiences of parents of children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) who have participated in parenting programmes in the UK. The parents attended generic programmes before they were able to access more specific programmes geared towards the needs of children with ASD. The parents found that the generic programmes were detrimental to the needs of their children and disruptive of family life, resulting in parental relationship breakdown in some instances. Whilst the ASD-specific programmes did provide some level of support, the most decisive factor was the sharing of experiences amongst those parents as well as the ongoing support that this fostered. The conclusion of this study is that the neoliberal responsibilisation of parents via parenting programmes is undermining the support networks of parents of children with ASD, and an asset-based community development approach would be more beneficial.

Suggested Citation

  • Keely Burch-Havers & Jon Ord, 2025. "‘Finding My Tribe’—The Mixed Blessing of Neoliberal Parenting Programmes for Parents of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder," Societies, MDPI, vol. 15(7), pages 1-17, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsoctx:v:15:y:2025:i:7:p:195-:d:1698616
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