A Survey of Knowledge about Autism among Experts and Caregivers

Abstract

Research on autism has historically been plagued by use of inconsistent criteria in defining autistic populations and has consequently often yielded conflicting or ambiguous results. However, a number of developments over the past fifteen years, including the establishment of a consensual definition, has fostered a more comprehensive and conclusive body of literature. The purpose of this study was to compare information accrued from the most recent research to the knowledge and beliefs of a sample of caregivers. Results of the survey indicate that three areas emerge for further in-service training of caregivers: (a) incidence and sex ratio, (b) etiology, and (c) attitudes toward public education of autistic children. Implications for in-service training are discussed.