Chinese Parents' Understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Issue 3 (4th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Su, Shanling; Paynter, Jessica; Gilmore, Linda
• Is Part Of: International journal of disability, development, and education. Volume 68:Issue 3(2021)
• Page Start: 414
• Page End: 426
• Publication Date: 2021-05-04
• Subjects: Autism spectrum disorder -- causal beliefs -- China -- parents -- knowledge; People with disabilities -- Education -- Periodicals; People with disabilities -- Periodicals; Special education -- Periodicals; Education, Special -- Periodicals; 371.9
• DOI: 10.1080/1034912X.2019.1687857
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1034-912X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study investigated family perceptions of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in China. A survey with open-ended questions assessing knowledge of ASD and its causes was distributed via nine ASD organisations across five different cities in Southern China. Results were analysed from a total of 104 Chinese caregivers who reported on their children or grandchildren with an ASD diagnosis. The results suggested that a large proportion of these families had limited understanding of ASD. A number of misconceptions were also evident within the sample. A tendency to blame themselves for their child's condition may have been further exacerbated by cultural expectations of the parental role. The implications of these findings in addressing misconceptions about ASD in China are discussed.