Chinese Parents' Understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Background: This study investigated family perceptions of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in China. Design: A survey with open-ended questions assessing knowledge of ASD and its causes was distributed via nine ASD organisations across five different cities in Southern China. Results: Results were analysed from a total of 104 Chinese caregivers who reported on their children or grandchildren with an ASD diagnosis. The results suggested that a large proportion of these families had limited understanding of ASD. A number of misconceptions were also evident within the sample. A tendency to blame themselves for their child's condition may have been further exacerbated by cultural expectations of the parental role. Discussion: The implications of these findings in addressing misconceptions about ASD in China are discussed.