This study aimed to analyze the progression of autism information over time and investigate the relationships among various factors such as autism knowledge, awareness, stigma, misinformation, cultural beliefs, and social norms. Utilizing the knowledge-attitude-behavior (KAB) model, a conceptual framework was devised to examine the connections between these variables. Employing a mixed-method approach comprising of systematic literature review and survey, the study initially examined articles spanning twenty-two years to track the progression of autism knowledge, awareness, and stigma. Subsequently, a survey was conducted to assess the current understanding of autism among individuals on the spectrum and their families as well as to evaluate the impact of different autism variables. The systematic literature review indicated an overall increase in autism knowledge and awareness, although it revealed disparities in certain ethnicities and areas such as genetic testing. Despite advancements, stigma was found to persist. Survey findings validated these observations, emphasizing the necessity for heightened autism awareness and the continued presence of stigma. Furthermore, the survey demonstrated that knowledge influences awareness, whereas cultural beliefs and social norms directly affect autism misinformation. Importantly, the study highlighted how cultural beliefs and misinformation can hinder accurate understanding and knowledge of autism, potentially exacerbating stigma. By employing evidence-based approaches, this study offers comprehensive insights into autism, enriching the broader literature on the subject.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:unt.edu/info:ark/67531/metadc2332606 |
| Date | 05 1900 |
| Creators | Pampapura Madali, Nayana |
| Contributors | Hawamdeh, Suliman M., Chang, Hsia-Ching, Xiao, Ting, Merlo, Tereza Raquel |
| Publisher | University of North Texas |
| Source Sets | University of North Texas |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis or Dissertation |
| Format | Text |
| Rights | Public, Pampapura Madali, Nayana, Copyright, Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise noted. All rights Reserved. |
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