Abstract

The aim of this empirical investigation is to analyse the role of associations in the development of intervention on children with autism in Iasi. Research methodology is a qualitative fieldwork based on observation and semi-structured interview. Professionals from two NGOs and a special school and parents of children with autism were interviewed. Research results show that associations have set up establishment of specialized structures, adapted to children with autism care. The development of these services was achieved through financial and logistical support received from outside, by attracting local authorities who provided locations, conducting awareness campaigns and fundraising etc. If before the parents of children with autism were desperate they did not know where to go, now they have several alternatives after receiving the diagnosis. The study concludes that the transition from resigned and submissive attitude of Romanian Government to provide a small financial support for families in an active attitude in which the emphasis is on development of educational and behavioural methods social integration of people with autism was made possible by the development of the NGO sector.