Experiences of service and diagnosis among immigrant families of young children with suspected or diagnosed developmental disabilities

Families made concerted efforts to locate appropriate supports. They also faced barriers including a lack of openness and genuine consultation, particularly in their encounters with health professionals. These barriers resulted in a level of mistrust and detachment from formalised supports. Results highlight the critical importance for health professionals of 'tuning into' family concerns through relationship-based approaches, in order to establish shared understanding and mutual respect between professionals and families, particularly for immigrant families seeking support for their young children.