Importance of Early Screening and Diagnosis for Children (3–10) with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Africa.
2025 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 40 credits / 60 HE credits
Student thesis [Artistic work]
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2025. , p. 40
Keywords [en]
Autism spectrum disorder, knowledge, awareness, early screening, caregivers, teachers, healthcare professionals.
National Category
Social Sciences
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-69456OAI: oai:DiVA.org:hj-69456DiVA, id: diva2:1986736
Subject / course
HLK, Child Studies
Presentation
2025-06-04, 528, University of Jönköping Sweden, Jönköping, 10:51 (English)
Supervisors
Examiners
Note
There is a significant research gap regarding the level of awareness and knowledge of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among caregivers, teachers, and health professionals in Africa. In many parts of Africa, a significant proportion of the population has limited knowledge of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), contributing to delays in early detection, screening, diagnosis, and intervention. While awareness refers to the general recognition of autism, knowledge involves a more in-depth understanding of the condition, including identifying early signs, knowing when and where to seek help, and understanding available services. In many cases, individuals may be aware of autism but lack the specific knowledge needed to take effective action. This distinction is critical, as a lack of understanding among caregivers, teachers, and health professionals often results in missed or delayed diagnoses.
Despite the extensive literature on autism, most studies focus on the situation in Western countries, and the African context is underrepresented. This limited research has fostered widespread misinformation, a lack of awareness, and a basic understanding of ASD among caregivers, teachers, and health professionals. Early detection and intervention are therefore delayed or not considered at all. The lack of formal training for frontline teachers and health professionals exacerbates the situation and spreads myths and misconceptions about autism. This scoping review aims to highlight the current state of knowledge, identify research gaps, and underline the importance of having culturally appropriate education and awareness programs in Africa to facilitate early screening and diagnosis of ASD in children of all ages.
2025-08-112025-08-032025-10-13Bibliographically approved