Autism and Intellectual/ Developmental Disabilities.

Full Answer Section

    In Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana, there is a lack of awareness and understanding of ASD and IDDs. This can lead to stigma and discrimination, and can make it difficult for families to access the support and services they need. Mothers who are raising children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana face a number of unique challenges, including:

• Limited access to education and healthcare services
• Lack of social support
• Financial hardship
• Stigma and discrimination

The experiences of mothers raising children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana are different from those of mothers in the US in a number of ways. For example, mothers in the US typically have access to more specialized support and services, and they face less stigma and discrimination. Purpose of the Panel Discussion The purpose of this panel discussion is to provide a platform for mothers who are raising children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana to share their experiences and challenges. The panel will also discuss the experiences of mothers raising children with ASD and IDDs in the US, and will compare and contrast the two. The panel discussion is intended to raise awareness of ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana, and to promote understanding and empathy for the challenges that mothers face. The panel will also discuss strategies for supporting mothers and their children with ASD and IDDs. Audience The target audience for the panel discussion is:

• Mothers who are raising children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana
• Professionals who work with children and adults with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana
• Policymakers and decision-makers in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana
• Members of the general public who are interested in learning more about ASD and IDDs

Panel Members The panel will consist of mothers who are raising children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana, as well as professionals who work with children and adults with ASD and IDDs in these countries. The panel will also include a mother who is raising a child with ASD and IDDs in the US. Discussion Questions The following questions will be used to guide the panel discussion:

• What are the challenges that mothers face raising children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana?
• How do the experiences of mothers raising children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana compare and contrast with the experiences of mothers in the US?
• What are some strategies for supporting mothers and their children with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana?

Conclusion The panel discussion on mothers’ experiences and challenges raising a child with ASD and IDDs in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana is an important opportunity to raise awareness of these conditions and to promote understanding and empathy for the challenges that mothers face. The panel will also discuss strategies for supporting mothers and their children with ASD and IDDs.  

Sample Answer

   

Concept Note

Panel Discussion on Mothers’ Experiences and Challenges Raising a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities in Liberia, Nigeria, and Ghana. Comparing with Mothers' Experience in the US.

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDDs) are neurodevelopmental conditions that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. Children and adults with ASD and IDDs often require specialized support and services to thrive.