Examination Family Physicians’ Knowledge and Awareness of Specific Learning Disorder

Abstract

Specific learning disorder (SLD) is defined as the difficulty an individual has been experiencing for at least six months in using their learning and academic skills despite appropriate interventions being provided. Family physicians are doctors who comprehensively evaluate individuals under their responsibility for diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and counseling services. Therefore, it is important that family physicians notice the symptoms of SLD in children and direct them for diagnosis, evaluation, and intervention. The aim of this study was to examine the knowledge and awareness levels of family physicians about SLD. For the research, the Special Learning Disorder Knowledge and Awareness Level Questionnaire" was developed by the researchers and administered to family physicians serving in various cities in Turkey. The data were obtained with the voluntary participation of 125 family physicians in an electronic environment. Statistical analyses were conducted by calculating the frequency and percentage values of the responses given by the family physicians to the questionnaire items. According to the research findings, it was determined that family physicians have knowledge deficiencies regarding the definition, etiology, prevalence, diagnosis, evaluation, and intervention processes of SLD. Additionally, it was determined that the awareness of family physicians about SLD is low and they mostly acquire information through the internet and social media (such as Instagram/Twitter) and books/articles. It is vital to implement the necessary interventions along with the early diagnosis of SLD. Therefore, it is important to increase the knowledge and awareness of family physicians so that they can notice individuals with SLD in early childhood and direct them to the diagnosis-evaluation and intervention processes.