Investigating Caregivers’ Advocacy Efforts in Early Intervention Using Auto-Photography and Photo-Elicitation Interviews

Abstract

Although it is widely known that caregivers advocate for their school-aged children with disabilities, little is understood about how caregivers who have infants and toddlers with delays or disabilities advocate for their young children. The birth-to-three period may be the beginning of some parents’ advocacy efforts and it is possible their efforts may change over time. Given the relevance of this topic and the limited literature, the purpose of this study was to use qualitative inquiry, specifically auto-photography and photo-elicitation interviews, to explore 13 caregivers’ advocacy experiences in their children’s early years. Thematic and constant comparative analyses were used and subsequently 41 major codes within seven categories were identified. The two major findings were (a) caregivers engaged in both individual (i.e., for their children) and outreach advocacy activities (i.e., for other families and children) and (b) their experiences extended beyond interactions with professionals and included everyday interactions with their children, family members and other parents. Directions for future research and implications for practice are discussed.