When the education system and autism collide: An Australian qualitative study exploring school exclusion and the impact on parent mental health

Autistic students experience elevated rates of school exclusion, whether this be through expulsion, suspension, informal suspension, refusal of enrolment, or school refusal. This exclusion can come about from a range of factors, including sensory or cognitive overload, a lack of training in neurodiversity for teachers, an absent sense of safety by the student at school, or poor attitudes towards the inclusion of autistic students in schools. The impacts of this exclusion on parents can be logistical, financial, and psychological, with a range of mental health outcomes. This Australian qualitative study presents case studies of seven parents of autistic students, as well as four themes that capture the recommendations of parents to address school exclusion. The findings demonstrate that parents experience stress in finding a suitable school for their child, working with staff to meet the needs of the child, and attempting to maintain employment and other commitments when the child experiences exclusion. Parents recommend greater acceptance of autism by education systems, better communication and use of neuro-affirming language, the option for flexible learning, and individualised support by the school for the student.