Knowledge of Autism and Attitudes Toward Autistic Children: Evaluation of Child Protection Service Staff in Türkiye

Abstract

ABSTRACT Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, and children with ASD are more frequently involved in the child protection system than neurotypical children. This study examines predictors of autism knowledge and attitudes toward autism in staff who care for children under protection in Turkey. The study also aims to provide training and examine the effects of the training on staff knowledge, attitudes and skills. A total of 217 participants attended the training, and both a pre-and post-training survey were conducted. In this study, gender, education level and contact history with people with ASD came to the fore among the factors affecting the knowledge and attitudes of the participants about autism. In particular, female gender, having a person with autism in their close circle, and having previous experience working with a child with ASD were associated with a higher level of knowledge about ASD. Additionally, as the education level of the participants increased, they reported more positive attitudes toward individuals with ASD. With this study, it has been shown that it is possible to improve social attitudes toward autism as well as increase knowledge and awareness with ASD training. We promote similar training for all children’s household staff countrywide.