Nigerian Healthcare Workers' Views on Childhood Autism
Author Information
Author(s): Bakare Muideen Owolabi, Agomoh Ahamefule O, Ebigbo Peter O, Eaton Julian, Okonkwo Kevin O, Onwukwe Jojo U, Onyeama Gabriel M
Primary Institution: Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, New Haven, Enugu, Nigeria
Hypothesis
What are the opinions of healthcare workers in Nigeria regarding the etiology, treatability, and preventability of childhood autism?
Conclusion
Healthcare workers in Nigeria have varied opinions on the etiology, treatability, and preventability of childhood autism, which may influence help-seeking behavior among parents.
Supporting Evidence
- 58.2% of healthcare workers believe childhood autism is caused by natural factors.
- 54.5% think childhood autism is treatable.
- 32.1% believe childhood autism is preventable.
- Healthcare workers' opinions on etiology significantly influenced their views on treatability and preventability.
Takeaway
This study asked healthcare workers in Nigeria what they think causes childhood autism and if it can be treated or prevented. Their answers can help improve how parents get help for their children.
Methodology
Healthcare workers were interviewed using questionnaires to assess their opinions and knowledge about childhood autism.
Potential Biases
Responses may be influenced by personal beliefs and cultural perspectives of the healthcare workers.
Limitations
The study may not represent all healthcare workers in Nigeria as it was limited to four facilities in specific regions.
Participant Demographics
{"gender":{"male":71,"female":63},"age":{"20 to 29":28,"30 to 39":57,"40 to 49":44,"50 and above":5},"marital_status":{"never_married":38,"married":91,"separated_divorced":1,"widowed":4},"area_of_specialty":{"pediatrics":21,"psychiatry":113},"working_experience":{"1 to 5 years":61,"6 to 10 years":9,"11 to 15 years":16,"16 to 20 years":41,"20 and above":7}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.014
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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