Parental Perceptions of a Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation for Toddlers at Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Parent satisfaction with neurodevelopmental evaluations may influence the pursuit of intervention. Parent satisfaction with a neurodevelopmental evaluation for toddlers at risk for autism (n=257; 128 with autism) was examined using the Post-Evaluation Satisfaction Questionnaire, which collected quantitative and qualitative information. Fewer ethnic/racial minority than non-minority parents returned the questionnaire. Factor analysis indicated a one-factor model, Total score, which did not differ significantly by diagnosis, autism severity, child's cognitive or adaptive delay, family race/ethnicity, maternal education, family annual income, or parental stress. Examination of 24 individual items showed a race/ethnicity difference for only one item; minority parents scored the evaluation as meeting their needs less. Qualitative data stressed the importance of fully explaining diagnoses/recommendations and providing direct and clear feedback.