Perception of Parents of Children With Communication Disorders About Barriers in the Application of Augmentative and Alternative Communication:Gender Differences
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59519/mper7207Keywords:
Augmentative and alternative communication, Barriers, Parents, EducationAbstract
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) encompasses various devices, systems, and strategies that support or replace spoken language. Although AAC methods have proven effective in working with children with communication disorders, their implementation depends largely on the engagement of parents, who often face multiple barriers. The aim of this study was to examine parents’ perceptions of barriers to the use of AAC, with a specific focus on gender differences between mothers and fathers. The sample included 30 parents (15 mothers and 15 fathers) of children with communication disorders. The study used the subscale “Barriers to the Use of AAC” (α = .76), from an original instrument designed to assess parental attitudes toward AAC. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results indicated that mothers perceived significantly more barriers than fathers (U = 55.50, p = .01). The most prominent barrier for both groups was uncertainty about where to begin learning about AAC methods.
The findings highlight the importance of a gendersensitive approach in parent education and the need to adapt support programs to improve accessibility and effectiveness in AAC implementation.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Aleksandar Zlatić, Zorica Veljković, Ivana Arsenić (Author)
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