Exploring experiences of vaccine-related and alternative treatments for individuals with autism: A qualitative study

Some alternative treatments wrongly suggest that routine childhood vaccines cause autism resulting in vaccine skepticism and false claims about curing autism. In the present study we explore the experiences of vaccine-related and alternative treatments of autistic individuals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with autistic adults (n = 3), parents of autistic children (n = 5) and parents of autistic adults (n = 5). Thematic analysis showed five themes: (1) reasons for choosing alternative treatment, (2) treatment content, (3) experiences with alternative care, (4) outcomes of the vaccine-related treatment and (5) future directions for treating autism. Both positive (holistic approach, time and attention) and negative aspects (false claims about vaccines and curability of autism) were found. Improved support and guidelines could reduce ineffective and harmful alternative treatments for autism.

Automated summary

Some alternative treatments falsely claim that routine childhood vaccines cause autism, leading to skepticism and false claims about curing autism. This study explores the experiences of autistic individuals with vaccine-related and alternative treatments. Interviews with autistic adults, parents of autistic children, and parents of autistic adults revealed several themes, including reasons for choosing alternative treatment, treatment content, experiences with alternative care, outcomes of vaccine-related treatment, and future directions for treating autism. Both positive and negative aspects were found, highlighting the need for improved support and guidelines to combat ineffective and harmful alternative treatments for autism.