The Relevance of Culture and Cultural Sensitivity in Autism, Intellectual Disability and Behavioural Assessments and Interventions in Nigeria

Cultural sensitivity must be prioritized in autism, intellectual disability, and behavioural assessments and interventions, as these carry crucial responsibilities – foremost among them ensuring equitable and respectful care for all individuals. In the African context, cultural sensitivity is extremely important due to the interplay of deep-seated factors, where diverse cultures, traditions, and social norms shape perceptions of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, along with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In other words, cultural sensitivity – the concept of understanding, respecting, and appropriately responding to the relevant cultural context of individuals – is vital within assessment and intervention frameworks. Indeed, Nigeria is no exception, as these cultures greatly influence how families perceive and access behavioural services.

This article aims to highlight the issue of neurodevelopmental disorders in Nigeria, focusing on culturally sensitive approaches and emphasising frameworks that culturally acknowledge local beliefs and values.

Culture holds significant importance in both social and individual contexts, leading to profound effects on others’ beliefs, values, and behaviours. Each of us communicates and responds to the world differently based on our diverse cultural backgrounds. Addressing the cultural context of children or individuals with autism, as an ethical consideration, is essential for effective treatment. Simultaneously, professionals must recognise the impacts that culture invariably has and be aware of their own biases when conducting assessments, diagnoses, and designing behaviour change programmes. This self-awareness is a crucial aspect of our work, as it enables us to provide the best possible care. We will review how attending to cultural diversity can make interventions more ethical and practical, emphasising the role of cultural sensitivity in formulating treatment plans. For parents, technicians, caregivers, clinicians, and teachers, understanding the influence of culture is vital in supporting children and individuals with autism.

Understanding Culture in Nigeria

Nigeria boasts a rich and diverse culture, comprising over 300 ethnic groups, each with distinct languages, customs, and perspectives on life. This cultural multiplicity shapes the perceptions that individuals and families hold regarding disability and mental health issues. Many Nigerian cultures tend to conceptualise autism or IDD within spiritual frameworks, viewing them as the outcome of supernatural influences, ancestral problems, or communal issues (Ennis-Cole et al., 2013). These attitudes often normalise discrimination and stigmatisation, rendering access to professional services extremely difficult, which underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity in evaluation and intervention procedures.

The Influence of Religion and Spirituality

Religion is a fundamental aspect of Nigerian culture, primarily characterised by Christianity and Islam. Some families may interpret neurodevelopmental disorders differently, viewing them as a test from God or as a consequence of spiritual warfare. This perspective can influence how families approach diagnoses and recommendations for intervention. Although these beliefs can be complex, professionals must navigate these frameworks with great sensitivity, integrating spiritual care alongside evidence-based services. This may involve engaging in respectful discussions with families about the potential advantages of evidence-based interventions while also acknowledging and respecting their cultural beliefs.

Socioeconomic Factors

Socioeconomic status also influences cultural perceptions of neurodevelopmental disorders. Families from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have limited access to healthcare resources, leading to a reliance on traditional healers or community support systems. Understanding these socioeconomic dynamics is crucial for practitioners to develop suitable interventions that address both the clinical and contextual needs of families (Bhatti-Sinclair, 2023). In urban areas, families may have better access to intervention services; however, stigma and misinformation can still hinder their willingness to seek help. In contrast, rural families may face greater barriers, including transportation issues and a lack of trained professionals. Addressing these disparities is essential for creating equitable access to behavioural services across Nigeria.

The Role of Cultural Sensitivity in Assessment and Diagnosis

1.     Perception and Interpretation of Behaviours

Cultural bias and behavioural evaluation are two facets of the same phenomenon, as a lack of cultural sensitivity can hinder practitioners from understanding behaviours within cultural contexts. For instance, behaviours perceived as bizarre in Western settings may be interpreted differently by Nigerians due to significant value differences in communal culture and social norms. Tafla et al. (2024) explained how a lack of understanding of different cultures can lead to misdiagnoses and ineffective treatment strategies.

For example, a withdrawn child may be seen as disengaged and interpreted as being shy in some cultures. In contrast, in others, this behaviour may be attributed to a lack of proper cultural understanding. Without adequate cultural insight, such an individual may be labelled as having a developmental disorder. Various cultures offer different perspectives; therefore, practitioners bear the responsibility of employing suitable culturally responsive frameworks to achieve the desired outcomes, avoid misdiagnosis, and provide the correct support.

2.     Engagement with Families

By involving families in the assessment process, practitioners can build trust and rapport, which are essential for achieving successful outcomes. This approach not only ensures that the proposed intervention is acceptable to the family but also respects their cultural values and beliefs. The outcome is a more effective and ethical intervention, leading to improved patient outcomes and increased trust in healthcare professionals.

It is advisable to consider family meetings where practitioners invite relevant family members to share their opinions and concerns. In doing so, practitioners can build essential rapport and trust, which are crucial for achieving successful outcomes. Furthermore, including other relatives such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles can provide additional avenues of support that may enhance the overall assessment.

3.     Communication Styles

Communication in Nigeria tends to be indirect and relies heavily on context due to a culture that emphasises respect and hierarchical structures. Families must be listened to attentively so that practitioners can grasp the essence of what is being communicated. In this regard, individuals with whom practitioners engage need to feel valued, which extends beyond vocal communication. Practitioners must be mindful of non-vocal cues and the significance of relational dynamics in discussions about assessments and behaviour (Iqbal, 2021).

For instance, conducting assessments in indigenous languages or dialects can enhance understanding and foster comfort. Additionally, practitioners must consider how they frame, pose, and respond to questions, ensuring that the language used is respectful and appropriate. Employing narrative frameworks to articulate ideas facilitates effective communication, as they align with traditional Nigerian practices and convey profound, intricate ideas or concepts in a relatable manner.

Culturally Sensitive Interventions

1.     Tailored interventions

Intervention implementation should consider the culture and society of Nigerian families. Such interventions should take into account the community’s social customs, income levels, and available resources. Culturally appropriate interventions that incorporate local languages, terminology, and materials are likely to encourage family participation and improve outcomes (Smith, 2020).

Tailoring strategies may involve adapting intervention approaches to align with local culture. For example, utilising storytelling or social activities can enhance relatability for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Additionally, community leaders can be incorporated into the practitioner’s intervention to improve acceptance and foster respect.

2.     Training for Practitioners

Training programmes for healthcare professionals should integrate the culture of the populations they serve. Strategies involve purposefully examining local culture and engaging in reflective practices. This also includes the development of culturally complex skills. Culturally sensitive professional development training has the potential to enhance the efficacy of assessment and intervention (Gorden, 2023).

Specific primary and secondary instructional techniques, including community education and outreach to promote neurodevelopmental disorders and services, need to be established. These strategies encourage active participation from families and the community. Professionals should organise workshops and seminars on cultural sensitivity to promote the sharing of practitioners’ experiences and peer learning.

Challenges and Opportunities

1.     Stigma and Misunderstanding

Cultural stigma continues to persist in Nigerian society regarding neurodevelopmental disorders, despite heightened awareness. Many families fear social stigma or discrimination and are thus hesitant to seek help. To promote acceptance and understanding, it is vital to change this outlook through education and community advocacy (Lichtensztejn et al., 2024).

Prominent community figures and leaders can assist in shifting perceptions of neurodevelopmental disorders and encouraging families to seek support without fear of stigma through positive narratives. Awareness campaigns, public forums, and support groups contribute to eliminating the stigma surrounding these disorders, fostering a more accepting environment for affected individuals and their families.

2.     Resource Limitations

Assessments and interventions that are culturally sensitive can be challenging to deliver. The lack of resources and trained professionals makes it exceedingly difficult to obtain culturally appropriate assessments and interventions. Collaboration among government branches, NGOs, and community groups is essential for increasing the availability of services and improving their accessibility (Griffith et al., 2024).

Investing in training local residents and developing community-based services can help alleviate these resource-related challenges. Furthermore, using technology, such as telehealth, can enhance the delivery of intervention services to remote and underserved areas.

3.     Policy and Advocacy

Culturally sensitive practices, particularly those concerning neurodevelopmental disorders, require advocacy for care policy. Public and private funding priorities ought to concentrate on training, community outreach, and pertinent research, which are measurable efforts. Nigeria can improve the quality of care for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, thereby fostering an environment that values cultural sensitivity.

Efforts should also concentrate on developing national guidelines that integrate cultural considerations into intervention practices, ensuring that all professionals are prepared to deliver culturally competent care. Collaboration with other African organisations can further enhance these initiatives by offering additional resources and expertise.

Conclusion

Cultural sensitivity is not merely an ethical imperative; it is a practical necessity within the realm of behavioural assessments and interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders in Nigeria. By recognising and respecting the cultural beliefs and practices of families, practitioners can foster improved engagement, enhance outcomes, and ultimately contribute to the well-being of individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As the field continues to evolve, ongoing dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders will be essential in creating culturally informed practices that resonate with the diverse populations they serve.

The journey towards culturally sensitive behavioural care in Nigeria requires commitment from all stakeholders, including healthcare providers, families, community leaders, and policymakers. By collaborating, they can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that acknowledges the unique cultural contexts of individuals and families affected by neurodevelopmental disorders.

Reference

Bhatti-Sinclair, K. (2023). Culturally appropriate interventions. In Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice.

Ennis-Cole, D., Durodoye, B. A., & Harris, H. L. (2013). The impact of culture on autism diagnosis and treatment: Considerations for counselors and other professionals. The Family Journal: Counseling and Therapy for Couples and Families, 21(3), 279-287.

Gorden, N. (2023). The role of culture and diversity in ABA treatment plans: Creating culturally sensitive and ethical interventions. Different Roads to Learning Blog.

Griffith, D. M., Efird, C. R., Baskin, M. L., Webb Hooper, M., Davis, R. E., & Resnicow, K. (2024). Cultural sensitivity and cultural tailoring: Lessons learned and refinements after two decades of incorporating culture in health communication research. Annual Review of Public Health, 45, 195-212.

Iqbal, T. (2021). Importance of intercultural sensitivity. MAP Education and Humanities, 1(2), 1-6.

Lichtensztejn Tafla, T., Triguero Veloz Teixeira, M. C., Woodcock, K. A., & Sowden-Carvalho, S. (2024). Autism spectrum disorder diagnosis across cultures: Are diagnoses equivalent? Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

Smith, J. D. (2020). Introduction to cultural considerations in collaborative and intervention assessment. Journal of Personality Assessment, 98(6), 563-566.

Tafla, T. L., Triguero Veloz Teixeira, M. C., Woodcock, K. A., & Sowden-Carvalho, S. (2024). Autism spectrum disorder diagnosis across cultures: Are diagnoses equivalent? Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

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Abia State & Shades of Life Foundation: #KnowTheSigns Initiative

Shades of Life Foundation had the honour of being invited to Abia State by the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of the Disabled Persons to speak to various stakeholders with a special focus on autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

During the session, we shared our #KnowTheSigns initiative, a comprehensive program to educate parents, teachers, healthcare providers and caregivers about the early signs of autism and the importance of early diagnosis. Our founder, Dr Eziafakaku Nwokolo, spoke from the heart about her personal journey, the realities of autism, and the importance of early diagnosis, especially for children between the ages of 0 – 5. She highlighted how schoolteachers and parents, who are often the first to notice the signs of a child on the spectrum, can play a vital role in triggering support for the children.

Dr Nwokolo also spoke about the kind of care and interventions that genuinely make a difference in the lives of children and individuals on the spectrum. She emphasised the need for the Abia State Government to introduce specific support systems and structures, such as early intervention programs, inclusive education policies, and community-based support services, to nurture these individuals effectively. In her presentation, she took the opportunity to challenge and correct several long-standing myths surrounding autism and intellectual disabilities, encouraging a shift toward understanding, empathy, and evidence-based care.

In a day of extraordinary vulnerability invoked through sharing personal experiences, one moment in particular summed it all up when a participant stood up and, on behalf of the staff and teachers present, passionately pleaded with the Abia State Government to partner with Shades of Life Foundation to help train teachers across the state. They recognised that what we were sharing was not just helpful but essential and backed by science. It was clear that there was a strong desire to do better for these children, which we were deeply encouraged by. The atmosphere was charged with curiosity, reflection, and hope. A teacher’s words captured the impact of our work: ‘For the first time, I feel equipped to make a real difference in how I approach a child who may be struggling silently, now that I know the signs and the right professionals to reach out to for support.’ Feedback and responses like this inspire our mission.

We are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and the opportunity to contribute to this significant conversation. Our heartfelt thanks go to the Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR for creating an inspiring enabling environment for inclusive growth; the Special Adviser to the Governor on PWD/Chairman, Abia State Commission for the Welfare of the Disabled Persons, Mr David Anyaele, Commissioner for Persons with Disability, Mr Stanley Onyebuchi, the  Principal Secretary to the Governor & Chief Strategy Officer of Abia State, Mr Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, and everyone who made this initial engagement possible. Your continued support and collaboration are invaluable to us.

At Shades of Life Foundation, we are committed to raising awareness, sparking change, and walking alongside communities as they build better support systems for individuals with autism, intellectual disability and related developmental disabilities. We look forward to more collaboration with Abia State and others who are ready to make a real difference.

Every autistic individual deserves to be seen, supported, understood and to live life to their full potential. We will not stop until that becomes a reality.

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Compassionate Care in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)

In the dynamic field of healthcare, particularly within behavioural sciences, the concept of compassionate care plays a crucial role. As practitioners in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) strive to improve the lives of their clients, integrating compassionate care into their practices is vital. It should become a cornerstone of their work. However, “compassionate care” is often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions about its true nature and application. This article attempts to clarify the essence of compassionate care in ABA, outline its core principles, and provide a comprehensive process flow diagram to illustrate its practical application.

 Compassionate care is overarching; it bridges technical intervention and the human experience, leading to stronger bonds and better results. To ensure client engagement, satisfaction, and overall quality of life, behaviour analysts must create a therapeutic environment that allows clients to feel supported and understood.

What is Compassionate Care In ABA

Compassionate care is defined as the recognition, empathic understanding, and emotional responsiveness to the pain, distress, or suffering of others as motivation to act and change these conditions (Lown et al., 2016). In the context of ABA, this means actively engaging with clients and their families to understand their needs and concerns while implementing effective interventions. It requires behaviour analysts to apply technical skills and connect with their clients on an emotional level.

Common Misconceptions About Compassionate Care

Compassionate care is often misconstrued and misunderstood as synonymous with permissiveness or a lack of structure. This can lead to the belief that compassion entails allowing clients to dictate their treatment or avoiding challenging conversations. In fact, the answer is quite the opposite because compassionate care is about creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued while ensuring that therapeutic goals are met through evidence-based practices.


Compassion Equals Permissiveness: Some people may believe that compassion means letting clients have their way. However, genuine compassion entails respecting clients’ feelings while assisting them in making better decisions.

Avoiding Difficult Conversations: A common misconception is that compassion entails avoiding difficult conversations. In fact, compassionate care often necessitates having those challenging talks in a constructive and supportive way.

Lack of Structure: Compassionate care incorporates empathy into a structured intervention framework, not a lack of structure.

Principles of Compassionate Care in ABA

1. Empathy and Active Listening

Empathy, a foundational component of compassionate care, is a powerful tool for behaviour analysts. By actively listening to clients and their families, acknowledging their feelings and concerns, and maintaining an open dialogue, behaviour analysts can foster a deeper understanding and connection with their clients. This approach, based on what the client is expressing vocally and non-vocally, allows the client to remain in control as much as possible (Taylor et al., 2019).

Active Listening Techniques

Maintain Eye Contact: Clients need to feel they have your full attention.

Nod and Use Affirmative Gestures: Non-vocal cues can convey understanding and encourage clients to continue sharing.

Repeat What You Hear: repeat short statements by clients so you can be sure of what they mean and let them know that you empathize with their feelings.

Ask Open-Ended Questions: Questions that cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no” encourage deeper conversation and exploration of feelings.

 2. Collaboration

Effective treatment in ABA requires a collaborative approach. By fostering a partnership between behaviour analysts, the client, and the family, interventions can be tailored to the client’s needs and preferences, ensuring their commitment and the success of the treatment.

 Strategies for Collaboration

Engage Family Members in Goal Setting: Involvement of family members in treatment planning can help ensure that interventions are effective.

Regularly Update Clients on Progress: Telling clients about everything you do enables transparency and trust.

· Encourage Family Insights: Family members frequently offer insightful opinions that can improve treatment efficacy.

 3. Evidence-Based Practices

Compassionate care must be grounded in evidence-based practices. Behavior analysts should utilize effective interventions that respect the client’s dignity and autonomy. This includes avoiding overly intrusive procedures and emphasizing positive reinforcement (Penny et al., 2023).

Examples of Evidence-Based Practices of Compassionate Care

Positive Reinforcement Strategies: Reinforcers (rewards) will positively influence an individual’s behaviour.

Data-Driven Decision-Making: Regular data collection and analysis enables behaviour analysts to evaluate the success of interventions and make the required modifications.

4. Continuous Feedback and Adjustment

Compassion in the sense of care calls for ongoing assessment and readjustment of interventions based on client feedback. The treatment team should always meet regularly to assess for effectiveness by behaviour analysts who practice client-centred care (Denegri et al., 2023).

Feedback Mechanisms

Structured Interviews: Conducting interviews to obtain client feedback on the treatment can be an incredibly valuable source of information.

Surveys: Administer satisfaction and perceived effectiveness surveys to inform adjustments in treatment.

Regular Team Meetings: Reviewing client progress with team members helps to adapt strategies and problem-solve.

The Role of Compassionate Care in Enhancing Client Outcomes

Better-quality Therapeutic Relationships

Compassionate care significantly enhances the therapeutic relationship between behaviour analysts and clients. Clients who are cared for and listened to (rather than ignored) are likelier to engage in treatment, adhere to interventions, and communicate their needs openly. This builds trust and leads to better outcomes, fostering an optimistic and motivated environment.

 Create Trust

Consistent Communication: Keep them updated and notify them of their care updates to ensure reliability.

Transparency: Being open about treatment processes and decisions can help build trust and compliance.

Increased Client Satisfaction

Clients who perceive their care as compassionate report higher levels of satisfaction. This satisfaction reflects not merely the treatment’s effectiveness but also how they feel treated throughout the process. It’s a validation of their experience and a testament to the appreciation they receive in compassionate care.

 Factors Contributing to Satisfaction

Effective Communication: Clear and compassionate communication makes clients feel informed and involved.

Feeling Valued: Clients who feel their concerns are taken seriously are more likely to be satisfied with their care.

 Long-Term Behavioural Change

Behaviour analysts can facilitate long-term behavioural change by integrating compassion into the therapeutic process. When clients are empathized with, it strongly internalizes the skills and strategies being taught and creates sustainable behaviour changes that are client goals and values-aligned agreements.

 Sustainability of Change

Empowerment: Clients who feel supported are likelier to take ownership of their progress and apply learned skills in real-life situations.

Resilience: Compassionate care can help clients develop resilience, enabling them to navigate challenges more effectively.

Process Flow Diagram

Below is an ABA process flow diagram depicting the key steps for implementing compassionate care.

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