This study investigates the nuanced educational choices made by Jewish national-religious (JNR) families in Israel for their children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It examines how parental worldviews, knowledge of ASD, and the severity of the child’s symptoms influence decisions between regular and special education settings. Through a mixed-methods approach, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data from 20 mothers, the research reveals a trend: parents with greater ASD knowledge and children exhibiting higher cognitive functioning, particularly in language development, were more likely to opt for inclusive educational environments. A core finding highlights the significant emotional and social complexities parents face, including profound fear of social stigma, guilt, and isolation related to their child’s diagnosis. The study emphasizes the dilemma of seeking specialized education versus maintaining community integration within their religious society, often leading to a choice of regular settings despite challenges. This research underscores the critical need for professional support and guidance for these families, advocating for informed parental choice that respects their unique cultural and communal values when determining educational placement for children with autism in Israel.

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Educational Choices for Autistic Children in Religious Communities

  • Liat Maia Schvarzman Sinai,
  • Shiri Pearlman-Avnion

摘要

This study investigates the nuanced educational choices made by Jewish national-religious (JNR) families in Israel for their children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It examines how parental worldviews, knowledge of ASD, and the severity of the child’s symptoms influence decisions between regular and special education settings. Through a mixed-methods approach, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data from 20 mothers, the research reveals a trend: parents with greater ASD knowledge and children exhibiting higher cognitive functioning, particularly in language development, were more likely to opt for inclusive educational environments. A core finding highlights the significant emotional and social complexities parents face, including profound fear of social stigma, guilt, and isolation related to their child’s diagnosis. The study emphasizes the dilemma of seeking specialized education versus maintaining community integration within their religious society, often leading to a choice of regular settings despite challenges. This research underscores the critical need for professional support and guidance for these families, advocating for informed parental choice that respects their unique cultural and communal values when determining educational placement for children with autism in Israel.