Lay beliefs about autism spectrum disorder among the general public and childcare providers

Abstract

We conducted a survey of beliefs about autism among the general public in the United States and Canada (n = 823) and among individuals working in childcare facilities in the state of Idaho (n = 176). Results included the following. Almost all respondents correctly believed that autism's primary causes are genetic and neurological (not parenting, drugs, or current diet), that it can be identified in early childhood, and that helpful interventions exist. Respondents generally distinguished diagnostic from non-diagnostic traits, but approximately half incorrectly labeled constant squirming as diagnostic and difficulties in making friends as non-diagnostic. College graduates and childcare workers were more likely to have learned about autism in professional/academic settings and to correctly recognize diagnostic traits. Of concern, 10% of respondents considered vaccinations to be among the two main causes of autism. Accurate public understanding of autism spectrum disorders can facilitate early identification and effective intervention; our results suggest that efficient channels for conveying accurate information include broadcast and online media (from which the general public, especially members of ethnic minority groups, were most likely to learn about autism), and professional development courses for childcare providers.

Comparison of maternal beliefs about causes of autism spectrum disorder and association with utilization of services and treatments

“…At least half of our sample believes environmental or genetic factors are implicated in the development of ASD. These findings are consistent with the literature describing trends in public beliefs about ASD causes over time, showing that beliefs in environmental and genetic factors have increased whereas beliefs that vaccinations cause ASD have decreased (Harrington, Patrick, et al, 2006; Harrington, Rosen, et al, 2006; RussellAl Anbar et al, 2010;Goin-Kochel et al, 2015;Fischbach et al, 2016;Zuckerman et al, 2016;Mitchell & Locke, 2015).…”

“…The decline in vaccines being cited as a cause of ASD coincides with the retraction of the Wakefield study that suggested a possible link between the measles–mumps–rubella vaccine and ASD (Wakefield et al, ) and with the increase of epidemiological studies that have weighed against this hypothesis, to a point where it can reasonably be considered disproven (Institute of Medicine, ; Taylor et al, ). It is worth noting that studies continue to indicate prevailing beliefs that vaccinations cause ASD may still exist among various groups, including parents of children with ASD (Bazzano, Zeldin, Schuster, Barrett, & Lehrer, ; Wolff & Madlon‐Kay, ; Fischbach et al, ; Mitchell & Locke, ). It is unclear why vaccine‐associated beliefs persist in studies, although it may depend in part on the group sampled (scientists, childcare providers, general public, or parents; Fischbach et al, ; Mitchell & Locke, ).…”

“…It is worth noting that studies continue to indicate prevailing beliefs that vaccinations cause ASD may still exist among various groups, including parents of children with ASD (Bazzano, Zeldin, Schuster, Barrett, & Lehrer, ; Wolff & Madlon‐Kay, ; Fischbach et al, ; Mitchell & Locke, ). It is unclear why vaccine‐associated beliefs persist in studies, although it may depend in part on the group sampled (scientists, childcare providers, general public, or parents; Fischbach et al, ; Mitchell & Locke, ). One study found that parents tend to incorporate new information within their existing beliefs about the aetiology of ASD (Reiff et al, ).…”

Attitudes of health care professionals toward people with intellectual disability: a comparison with the general population

“…Stone ; Heidgerken et al . ; Mitchell & Locke ) examine views and misconceptions of HCPs about diagnostic criteria, course, treatment and prognosis.…”

Autism Spectrum Disorders in the work of General Practitioners: a systematic narrative review

“…Enduring misconceptions include retrograde theories about parenting or materials used in the production of vaccines. Although most people tend to get their information about autism from the media (17), healthcare professionals are widely viewed as authorities and will be consulted and required to advise on neurodevelopmental differences, including autism. Therefore, it is crucial that healthcare professionals across the assessment pathway have a sound and shared understanding of the condition.…”