Awareness and Knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorders among Primary School Teachers in India.

Abstract

Background: The incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) has increased in recent years. This is because of greater awareness and newer, more effective diagnostic criteria. However in India and other developing countries ASD is underdiagnosed and awareness is poor. Objective: To assess knowledge and awareness about ASD among elementary school teachers and the variables influencing that knowledge. Methods: 326 teachers were given a self -report questionnaire and knowledge was assessed based on their response. Socio-demographic history was also elicited. Results: 95.7% of the teachers were aware of autism. Only 21% had adequate knowledge. 71 teachers had prior training on ASD. Teachers with more experience and prior training performed better. Conclusion: The teachers had poor knowledge of ASD. Teaching experience and prior training were positively correlated to knowledge.