KNOWLEDGE ASSESSMENT AMONG AUTISTIC CHILDREN’S PARENTS REGARDING AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental disorderthis involves difficulties in social communication and interaction as well as unusualpatterns of interest and behavior.Aim: This study aimed to assess knowledgeof autisticchildren’s parents about ASD. Design:A descriptive design was utilized in currentstudythat carried out atthree governmental hospitalslocated in Dakahlia and Port SaidGovernorates.Convenient sampleof 68 parents whose children have ASDincluded in thestudy.Tools:A structured interview sheet was used to assess socio-demographiccharacteristics of the studied parents and parent's knowledge about ASD. Results: Themajority of studied parents know symptoms of ASD. More than half of parents were had noknowledge about red flags of ASD.Less than two thirds of studied parents reported therelation between aggressive behaviors and ASD. Moreover, less than two thirds of themreported that children diagnosed with ASD have special skills.Additionally, more than halfof studied parents reported that psychological treatment to be the best. Conclusion: Therewas avariation regarding parents’ knowledge about ASD. Recommendations: Enhanceparents' knowledge regarding ASD