Knowledge mediates attitude in autism spectrum disorders? Data from Malaysia
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
International Journal of Developmental Disabilities
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences
RAS ID
36939
Funders
Industry Grant (NN-2020-026, first author)
Abstract
Limited efforts have been made in middle- and low-income countries to raise public awareness of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) over the past ten years. We report data from a general population survey exploring the relationship between awareness, knowledge, and attitudes regarding autism in Malaysia. A questionnaire consisting of items related to awareness, knowledge, and attitudes regarding ASD was distributed. The scores of knowledge of ASD and attitude towards ASD were 6.87 (SD = 4.17; with a total possible score of 12) and 6.39 (SD = 2.77; with a total possible score of 9), respectively, indicating that, on average, the participants had moderate levels of knowledge and attitude. Structural equation modeling showed that improving awareness and knowledge about ASD will enhance more positive attitudes towards ASD. Efforts should be geared towards disseminating information about ASD, in order to increase acceptance of the disorder.
DOI
10.1080/20473869.2021.1975254
Access Rights
subscription content
Comments
Chu, S. Y., Lee, J., Wong, Y. Y., Gan, C. H., Fierro, V., & Hersh, D. (2023). Knowledge mediates attitude in autism spectrum disorders? Data from Malaysia. International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, 69(4), 568-577.
https://doi.org/10.1080/20473869.2021.1975254