Creating an Inclusive Society… How Close are We in Relation to Autism Spectrum Disorder? A General Population Survey

Abstract

Therefore, it seems that inclusion is working to an extent, but more clarity is needed with regard to adequate education, intervention and support for individuals with autism.

Autism awareness in children and young people: surveys of two populations

“…Relatively positive attitudes about autism were found amongst the sample (Dillenburger et al . ). These findings confirmed an earlier smaller study ( n = 500) by the National Autistic Society in Northern Ireland that reported similarly high levels of autism awareness (90%; Stewart ).…”

“…A recent general population survey of adults in the Northern Ireland [Northern Ireland Life and Times (NILT); n = 1204] revealed high levels of autism awareness (82%), with 52% of the adult respondents personally knowing someone with autism (Dillenburger et al 2013). Relatively positive attitudes about autism were found amongst the sample (Dillenburger et al 2015b). These findings confirmed an earlier smaller study (n = 500) by the National Autistic Society in Northern Ireland that reported similarly high levels of autism awareness (90%; Stewart 2008).…”

Experiences of Autism Acceptance and Mental Health in Autistic Adults

“…Moreover, when interviewed about their experiences of acceptance from society, adults on the autism spectrum reported that a lack of public understanding was contributing to their experiences of social isolation and anxiety (Griffith et al 2012 ). Studies examining autism acceptance additionally indicate that although non-autistic people are aware of autism (Dillenburger et al 2013 , 2015 ), misunderstandings and misconceptions are common nonetheless, such as believing that changing an autistic child’s diet can lessen symptoms, or that autism can be outgrown (Tipton and Blacher 2014 ). Further, unconscious biases towards autism can still be prevailingly negative even in those who work regularly with autistic children (Kelly and Barnes-Holmes 2013 ).…”

On the spectrum, off the beaten path. A qualitative study of Irish parents’ experiences of raising a child with autism spectrum conditions

“…Limited research has been conducted into how society at large views ASC. One such study by Dillenburger, McKerr, Jordan, Devine, and Keenan () used a representative sample of over 1,200 respondents from Northern Ireland. The research indicated that respondents were accepting and comfortable with living, working and educating inclusively together with individuals with autism.…”