PERCEPTION OF CHILD AUTISM AMONG PRESCHOOL TEACHERS IN THE LEDZOKUKU-KROWOR MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY

ABSTRACT

Background

Autism is a condition that is increasing worldwide. Preschool teachers who are the primary caregivers beside parents in most situations, are not able to accurately detect the signs and symptoms of autism and respond appropriately as this is of utmost importance to help provide the best healthcare to autistic children. The study was conducted with the aim to assess the perception of preschool teachers towards child autism in the Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipality. Methods A total of 210 preschool teachers (58% females) in 8 selected communities in the Ledzokuku Krowor Municipal Assembly, Ghana completed questionnaires relating to their demographic characteristics, level of knowledge in typical child development and child autism, perceptions and attitudes towards the efficiency in educating children with the diagnosis as well as the their knowledge of institutions that render services and care for children with the syndrome. Using univariate and multivariable analyses, the association between demographic and school level variables and knowledge of typical child development and ASD were examined. Results The findings of the study revealed that teachers had low levels of knowledge on ASD. The results also showed that there was a quite positive attitudes and perceptions towards the education of children with autism (include stats here). Finally, there was a significant association between knowledge on ASD and attitudes and perceptions towards ASD (include stats here). Conclusion Preschool teachers generally possess low levels of knowledge about autism spectrum disorder. Even though preschool teachers have a quite positive attitudes and perceptions towards the disorder, increasing their knowledge has the tendency to make them have a more positive attitude and perception towards autism spectrum disorder.