The Jordanian Population’s Knowledge, Attitudes, and Willingness to Help People with Autism: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective

To assess the knowledge and attitudes of the general public in Jordan towards autism. In addition, we aimed to assess their awareness of various treatment options for autism, and their attentiveness and willingness to assist.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Jordan for the period between April and May 2022 using an online questionnaire developed based on a literature review. A total of 833 individuals in Amman city completed the questionnaires assessing participant demographics, knowledge of and attitude towards ADS, awareness of management options, perception, and ability to help. Using logistic regression, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for those who are more likely to be informed about autism were determined.

Results

The participants’ overall understanding of autism spectrum disorder was poor, with a mean score of 6.2 (SD: 3.1) out of 17, or 36.5%. The participants showed a moderately positive attitude towards autism, with an average agreement of 60.9% for government support for ADS children. The items about management options auditory integration training therapy had the highest level (50.1%). Additionally, the participants showed a moderate to high level of attention and ability to help people with autism. The majority confirmed that they see the need to implement changes in public facilities to meet the needs of autistic patients (71.8%). When compared to others, females, aged below 30, single, with family income less than 500 JD, holding a bachelor’s degree, and working outside the healthcare field had a higher likelihood of knowing more about the autism spectrum condition (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

Our research illustrates the lack of awareness and knowledge among the Jordanian population regarding autism. To fill this gap, educational awareness programs should be conducted to promote Jordanian knowledge regarding autism and find ways in which communities, organisations, and governments can support so as to allow for early diagnoses and an appropriate treatment plan and therapy for autistic children.

Keywords:

• attitude
• autism
• Jordan
• knowledge
• public

Data Sharing Statement

All data are available on reasonable request from the corresponding author.

Ethical Approval

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Isra University, Amman, Jordan gave their clearance with IRB No. SREC/22/03/36. This study was conducted in accordance with the World Medical Association (WMA) Declaration of Helsinki.

Author Contributions

All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.