The experiences and views of parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) about the institution of parallel support in Greece

This study explores the views and experiences of parents with children on the autism spectrum on Parallel Support. The sample of the study consisted of 121 parents who have children with ASD [90 (74.4%) women and 31 (25.6%) men]. The study was conducted from February until September 2017. The survey data was analysed using SPSS version 21 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). The results of the study showed that parents are satisfied with the Parallel Support programme and that Parallel Support contributes positively to their children's socialisation. Additionally, the findings showed that parents are aware of the responsibilities of the special education teacher, and the final goals of the Parallel Support their children receive. However, parents seem not to be satisfied with the way special education teachers are recruited. In respect to the way Parallel Support operates in regard to the general learning development of the pupil, the majority of the parents found it to be poor. Finally, parents are quite satisfied with their cooperation with the Parallel Support teacher. In conclusion, the findings indicate that more effort from the Greek government is needed in order to implement Parallel Support for children with ASD.