Australian SLPs’ knowledge and actions regarding the early signs of autism: When does caution become gatekeeping?
| Monday, May 27, 2024 |
| 12:10 PM - 12:25 PM |
| River View Room 05 |
Overview
Details
📚 Assumed knowledge of attendees: Intermediate (some previous learning/working knowledge of topic e.g. treated a few cases)
Presenter
Australian SLPs’ knowledge and actions regarding the early signs of autism: When does caution become gatekeeping?
12:10 PM - 12:25 PMPresentation summary
Objectives: This study sought to investigate what Australian SLPs know about autism characteristics, their recognition of early indicators of autism in young, as yet undiagnosed children, and the actions they take when they identify these characteristics.
Method: A 34 question cross-sectional online survey was developed by the research team and in conjunction with an autistic researcher and included true/false knowledge questions, Likert scale questions about their confidence and open questions. Qualitative data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2022) to analyse open responses in a systematic and rigorous way. The authors collaboratively identified and defined the major themes.
Result: The 70 participating SLPs worked in various contexts around the country. The majority of participants demonstrated sound knowledge of the main characteristics of autism, but there was variation in their knowledge of early indicators of autism. An overarching theme (Speech Language Pathologists are Cautious) was developed, and three broad themes regarding caution, facilitating factors and actions were identified.
Conclusion: Australian SLPs have knowledge of the main characteristics of autism and some early indicators. However, they demonstrate a cautious approach around the subject of autism, with concerns about upsetting parents, and judgements about the readiness of parents to hear about potential autism. It is possible that this caution may cause delays for children requiring diagnostic services. Support and education for speech language pathologists regarding the early indicators of autism and how to have timely and supportive conversations with families may be useful.
Key messages
1. an understanding of the characteristics and early signs of autism
2. a recognition of the challenges speech pathologists report in discussing autism with families
3. a clear understanding of the crucial role that speech pathologists play in the journey towards autism diagnosis
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Australian SLPs’ knowledge and actions regarding the early signs of autism: When does caution become gatekeeping?
12:10 PM - 12:25 PM**********
Session chair
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