Assessment of awareness of speech and language pathologists regarding poor attention span in children with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

 

Background: Autism is an all-encompassing condition observed in children, marked by disruptions and lags in cognitive, language, behavior, communication, and social interactions. Typically, children with autism encounter challenges in learning due to deficits in social skills and distinctive behavior patterns that differ from those of their peers. An inherent characteristic of autistic children is a hindrance in attention span, significantly affecting their learning journey. To facilitate the learning process for children with autism, it becomes imperative to employ teaching methods tailored to their distinctive characteristics. This approach aims to support and enhance their overall learning experience.

Objective: This study aims to assess the awareness of speech and language pathologists regarding poor attention in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

Methodology: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted to gather comprehensive insights into the knowledge about awareness among SLPs managing poor attention span in children having autism spectrum disorder. This study was conducted at the University of Lahore and data was collected from practicing SLPs by using purposive convenient sampling technique. Data was collected through questionnaire consisting of two parts, 1^st part comprising demographic information and 2^nd part consisting of questions related to knowledge about awareness among speech and language pathologists regarding poor attention span in children with Autism Spectrum disorder. SLPs having BS-SLP/MS-SLP degrees and dealing with poor attention span in children with ASD population were included in the study.

Results: Data provides valuable insights into the demographic and professional characteristics of SLPs managing ASD. The sample includes 127 SLPs with mean age 27.13 ± 7.99 years (with at least age 18 year and maximum age of 70 years). On asking SLPs regarding the behavioral challenges of ASD being crucial to attend (63.8%) reported that this is prime goal to focus on. Investigating about whether improving joint attention can reduce and mitigate the disconcertion during physical confrontation in social settings 72 (56.7%) believed that these can do the job well. An aspect of interest was about the awareness of therapeutic techniques which can help mitigating poor attention span among speech and language pathologists. The popular opinion of targeted population was agreeing with 75 (59.1%) majority.

Conclusion(s): On the basis of obtained findings and literature review it is concluded that speech and language pathologists are aware of the behavioral challenges of children with autism and needs further important progressive approaches in this regard.