Autism in Vietnam: Knowledge, training, and communication barriers among professionals, educators, and caregivers

ABSTRACT

This investigation examines knowledge of autism, training in autism, and communication among professionals, general educators, and caregivers. The development of educational services for students with disabilities in Vietnam has been historically influenced by a number of financial, political and societal factors. The current status of services for students with disabilities is summarized. The present study evaluates autism practices in particular through survey research of professionals, general educators, and caregivers in Vietnam. Barriers to communication and areas for improvement are identified in order to make recommendations for the advancement of autism practices in Vietnam.

KEYWORDS:

• autism
• Vietnam
• diagnostic knowledge
• professional training
• communication

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Alexis B. Ritter

Dr. Alexis B. Ritter obtained her PsyD and BCBA at St. John's University in the School Psychology program. Dr. Ritter is currently a psychologist and behavior therapist at Bridge Kids of New York, LLC, a private company that provides home- and school-based psychological and behavior therapy services to children and their families.

Mark D. Terjesen

Dr. Mark D. Terjesen is Associate Professor at St. John’s University in the School Psychology (PsyD and MS) programs. Dr. Terjesen has studied, published, and presented at a number of national and international conferences and trained many professionals internationally in school psychology and the use of cognitive behavioral practices with children and families. Dr. Terjesen has served as President of the School Division of the New York State Psychological Association, the President of the Trainers of School Psychologists, and is Past President of Division 52 (International Psychology) of the American Psychological Association of which he is also a fellow.

Toan N. Khuc

Dr. Toan N. Khuc obtained his PsyD at St. John's University in the School Psychology program. Dr. Khuc is currently a professor at Hanoi National University of Education in the Department of Psychology and Education, where he has been devoting his work to the training of school and educational psychologists in Vietnam.