A Systematic Review of Healthcare Professionals ’ Knowledge, Self-Efficacy and Attitudes Towards Working with Autistic People

This study systematically reviewed empirical research examining healthcare professionals ’ knowledge, self-efficacy and attitudes towards working with autistic people. Thirty-five studies were included. The included studies sampled a range of countries and professional backgrounds. A modified quality assessment tool found the quality of the included studies was moderately good. Narrat ive synthesis indicated that healthcare professionals report only moderate levels of autism knowledge and self-efficacy, and often lack training. Variation within and between countries and professional background was not explained by demographic factors. The reviewed evidence suggests health profess ionals’ limited knowledge and self-efficacy in working with autistic people is a challenge to the provision of healthcare for autistic individuals.
Source: Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders - Category: Child Development Source Type: research