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Huang Y, Arnold SRC, Foley KR, Trollor JN. Experiences of Support Following Autism Diagnosis in Adulthood. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:518-531. [PMID: 36409392 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05811-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore experiences of support after adulthood autism diagnosis. In this mixed-methods survey study of 137 adults, we found that most common formal supports received were counselling and mental health. Common unmet support needs were sensory sensitivities and accessing other services. Cost, lack of information, and fear of not being taken seriously were common barriers. Informal support was mainly helpful for self-understanding and emotions toward diagnosis. Qualitative findings included difficulties accessing formal support, need for practical quality-of-life supports and support from autistic peers and online communities. Based on these findings, future development of supportive interventions should address unmet needs, improve access, and explore the integration of autistic peer support and online support into formal services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhe Huang
- Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry (3DN), UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- The Cooperative Research Centre for Living With Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Samuel R C Arnold
- Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry (3DN), UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
- The Cooperative Research Centre for Living With Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Kitty-Rose Foley
- Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry (3DN), UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Julian N Trollor
- Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry (3DN), UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- The Cooperative Research Centre for Living With Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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2
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Murakami K, Shinozaki N, Kimoto N, Onodera H, Oono F, McCaffrey TA, Livingstone MBE, Okuhara T, Matsumoto M, Katagiri R, Ota E, Chiba T, Nishida Y, Sasaki S. Web-Based Content on Diet and Nutrition Written in Japanese: Infodemiology Study Based on Google Trends and Google Search. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e47101. [PMID: 37971794 PMCID: PMC10690527 DOI: 10.2196/47101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increased availability of content of uncertain integrity obtained through the internet is a major concern. To date, however, there has been no comprehensive scrutiny of the fitness-for-purpose of web-based content on diet and nutrition. OBJECTIVE This cross-sectional study aims to describe diet- and nutrition-related web-based content written in Japanese, identified via a systematic extraction strategy using Google Trends and Google Search. METHODS We first identified keywords relevant for extracting web-based content (eg, blogs) on diet and nutrition written in Japanese using Google Trends. This process included identification of 638 seed terms, identification of approximately 1500 pairs of related queries (top) and search terms, the top 10% of which were extracted to identify 160 relevant pairs of related queries (top) and search terms, and identification of 107 keywords for search. We then extracted relevant web-based content using Google Search. RESULTS The content (N=1703) examined here was extracted following a search based on 107 keywords. The most common themes included food and beverages (390/1703, 22.9%), weight management (366/1703, 21.49%), health benefits (261/1703, 15.33%), and healthy eating (235/1703, 13.8%). The main disseminators were information technology companies and mass media (474/1703, 27.83%), food manufacturers (246/1703, 14.45%), other (236/1703, 13.86%), and medical institutions (214/1703, 12.57%). Less than half of the content (790/1703, 46.39%) clearly indicated the involvement of editors or writers. More than half of the content (983/1703, 57.72%) was accompanied by one or more types of advertisement. The proportion of content with any type of citation reference was 40.05% (682/1703). The themes and disseminators of content were significantly associated with the involvement of editors or writers, accompaniment with advertisement, and citation of reference. In particular, content focusing on weight management was more likely to clearly indicate the involvement of editors or writers (212/366, 57.9%) and to be accompanied by advertisement (273/366, 74.6%), but less likely to have references cited (128/366, 35%). Content from medical institutions was less likely to have citation references (62/214, 29%). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights concerns regarding the authorship, conflicts of interest (advertising), and the scientific credibility of web-based diet- and nutrition-related information written in Japanese. Nutrition professionals and experts should take these findings seriously because exposure to nutritional information that lacks context or seems contradictory can lead to confusion and backlash among consumers. However, more research is needed to draw firm conclusions about the accuracy and quality of web-based diet- and nutrition-related content and whether similar results can be obtained in other major mass media or social media outlets and even other languages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Murakami
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nana Shinozaki
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nana Kimoto
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Onodera
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumi Oono
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, Division of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tracy A McCaffrey
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - M Barbara E Livingstone
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, United Kingdom
| | - Tsuyoshi Okuhara
- Department of Health Communication, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mai Matsumoto
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryoko Katagiri
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Erika Ota
- Global Health Nursing, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
- Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Chiba
- Department of Food Function and Labeling, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Nishida
- Department of Biostatistics, M&D Data Science Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Sasaki
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, Division of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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3
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Friedman NR, Watkins L, Barnard-Brak L, Barber A, White SW. De-implementation of Low-Value Practices for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2023; 26:690-705. [PMID: 37452164 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-023-00447-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to a variety of factors, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has long been tethered to use of low-value practice (LVP), arguably moreso than any other psychiatric or neurodevelopmental condition. Although dissemination of empirically supported treatments (EST) for autistic individuals has expanded markedly over the past decade, there has not been concomitant reduction in the use of LVP. It is critical that clinicians and scientists not only promote the implementation of EST, but also facilitate the de-implementation (abandonment and/or divestment) of ineffective or harmful practices. In this review, we describe a data-driven approach that can be used to identify LVP, drawing from established criteria for identification of evidence-based treatments (e.g., APA Division 12, National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice; SAMHSA), as well as broader considerations such as social validity, cost, and parsimony. Herein, a data-based approach to LVP identification is proposed with a goal of improving quality of service access. Within an implementation science framework, we identify specific facilitators that sustain LVP use, and recommendations for subsequent de-implementation strategies are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole R Friedman
- Center for Youth Development and Intervention, University of Alabama, 101 McMillan Bldg, Box 870348, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Laci Watkins
- Department of Special Education, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
- Department of Educational Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Lucy Barnard-Brak
- Department of Special Education, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Angela Barber
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Samford University, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Susan W White
- Center for Youth Development and Intervention, University of Alabama, 101 McMillan Bldg, Box 870348, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA.
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.
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4
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Simpson K, Adams D, Manokara V, Malone S. Research and training priorities of staff supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities with or without autism. JOURNAL OF POLICY AND PRACTICE IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kate Simpson
- Autism Centre of Excellence, School of Education and Professional Studies Griffith University Brisbane Australia
- Griffith Institute of Educational Research Griffith University Brisbane Australia
| | - Dawn Adams
- Autism Centre of Excellence, School of Education and Professional Studies Griffith University Brisbane Australia
- Griffith Institute of Educational Research Griffith University Brisbane Australia
| | - Vimallan Manokara
- Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore (MINDS) Singapore
| | - Stephanie Malone
- Autism Centre of Excellence, School of Education and Professional Studies Griffith University Brisbane Australia
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Pryor TAM, Reynolds KA, Kirby PL, Bernstein MT. An examination of the quality of late-life depression websites on the Internet (Preprint). JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e36177. [PMID: 36094802 PMCID: PMC9513688 DOI: 10.2196/36177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The internet can increase the accessibility of mental health information and improve the mental health literacy of older adults. The quality of mental health information on the internet can be inaccurate or biased, leading to misinformation. Objective This study aims to evaluate the quality, usability, and readability of websites providing information concerning depression in later life. Methods Websites were identified through a Google search and evaluated by assessing quality (DISCERN), usability (Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool), and readability (Simple Measure of Gobbledygook). Results The overall quality of late-life depression websites (N=19) was adequate, and the usability and readability were poor. No significant relationship was found between the quality and readability of the websites. Conclusions The websites can be improved by enhancing information quality, usability, and readability related to late-life depression. The use of high-quality websites may improve mental health literacy and shared treatment decision-making for older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teaghan A M Pryor
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Kristin A Reynolds
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Paige L Kirby
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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6
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Bellon-Harn ML, Boyd RL, Manchaiah V. Applied Behavior Analysis as Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Topic Modeling and Linguistic Analysis of Reddit Posts. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2022; 2:682533. [PMID: 36188818 PMCID: PMC9397756 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2021.682533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: It is critical for professionals to understand the discourse landscape within various online and social media outlets in order to support families of children with autism in treatment decision-making. This need is heightened when considering treatments that have garnered excitement and controversy, such as applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy. Method: The specific aims of this study were to identify the main themes in Reddit posts about ABA-based interventions for autism using topic modeling, to examine the linguistic aspects of Reddit conversations using the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) analysis, and to examine the relationship between linguistic aspects and user category (i.e., pro- vs. anti-ABA vs. undecided, parent vs. professional vs. an individual with autism). Results: The topic modeling resulted in 11 themes that ranged across various elements, such as autism as a condition and its management, stakeholders, and consequences of autism and the support needed. The posts of individuals were focused on personal experiences and opinions as opposed to clinical and research information sharing. Linguistic analysis indicated that the posts reveal an intimate stance rather than an empirical stance. Conclusions: Results provide insight into perspectives of ABA. This type of research may help in developing and distributing appropriate and evidence-based information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica L. Bellon-Harn
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Piedmont University, Demorest, GA, United States
- Virtual Hearing Lab, Collaborative Initiative Between Lamar University and University of Pretoria, Beaumont, TX, United States
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal, India
- *Correspondence: Monica L. Bellon-Harn
| | - Ryan L. Boyd
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
- Security Lancaster, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
- Data Science Institute, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Piedmont University, Demorest, GA, United States
- Virtual Hearing Lab, Collaborative Initiative Between Lamar University and University of Pretoria, Beaumont, TX, United States
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal, India
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, United States
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Abstract
PurposeThis study aims to explore the gap between information needs and services for autism in China.Design/methodology/approachThe gap is revealed by investigating the status quo of autism information needs and services. The authors extracted categories and subcategories of information needs through content analysis of academic documents and then supplemented the subcategories through text mining of an online forum. Meanwhile, categories and subcategories of information services were extracted through content analysis of autism websites. Finally, the authors matched the two to explore the gap and designed a quantitative index to measure it.FindingsA total of eight and ten categories of information needs and services are extracted, respectively. In total, six categories of information needs can be partly matched, but nearly half of the subcategories failed. Huge gaps in economic support, sociality and policy mechanisms categories are observed through the quantitative index and medium gaps in social resource services and employment categories while almost no gaps in psychological/emotional counseling, rehabilitation skills training and professional knowledge/information categories.Originality/valueThis study takes a deep insight into the gap between autism information needs and services in China, providing evidences and suggestions for information providers to improve their services. Academic documents and online forum data are adopted to avoid the impact of stigmatization, which provides a multi-source data analysis approach for the information needs of special groups.
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8
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Liu L, Shi L. Does the ownership of health website matter? A cross-sectional study on Chinese consumer behavior. Int J Med Inform 2021; 152:104485. [PMID: 34004399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2021.104485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ownership has significant impact on website motivation. Consumers may heavily rely on the health website ownership cue when assessing credibility and making behavioral response toward health information on it. Health websites were primarily divided into four different ownership types (i.e., governmental, organizational, commercial, and personal) in China's context. However, research on Chinese consumer behavior toward different ownership types of health websites is scarce. OBJECTIVES To investigate the most credible and most commonly used health website ownership type among Chinese consumers, and to identify the influencing factors on perceived credibility, and actual usage of health websites. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of 1653 participants was conducted in 3-tier hospitals in 3 cities with different income levels. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors influencing Chinese consumers' perceived credibility and actual use of health websites. RESULTS The most credible health website was the organizational, followed by the governmental, commercial, and personal. The most commonly used health website was the commercial, followed by the organizational, governmental, and personal. Individuals in medium-income and low-income cities were more likely than those in high-income cities to trust and use non-governmental health websites. Compared to the governmental health website, consumers of high-level hospitals were less likely than those of primary hospitals to trust and use personal health websites. Compared to the governmental health website, high-income individuals were more likely than low-income individuals to trust the personal health website, and use the organizational and commercial health website. CONCLUSIONS Both Chinese consumers' perceived credibility and actual use of health website varied by ownership, and there was a gap between perceived credibility and actual usage of health website. Most sociodemographic factors had no statistically significant correlations with perceived credibility and actual usage of health website. City income level, consumer type and consumer income level were significantly associated with perceived credibility, actual usage of health websites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyun Liu
- College of Humanities and Management, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Fuyang District Gaoke Road, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Lizheng Shi
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, 1440 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA, 70112, United States
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9
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Capuano AM, Killu K. Understanding and addressing pseudoscientific practices in the treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders: Considerations for applied behavior analysis practitioners. BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/bin.1750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angela M. Capuano
- College of Education, Health, and Human Services University of Michigan‐Dearborn Dearborn Michigan USA
| | - Kim Killu
- College of Education, Health, and Human Services University of Michigan‐Dearborn Dearborn Michigan USA
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10
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Rabba AS, Dissanayake C, Barbaro J. Development of a Web-Based Resource for Parents of Young Children Newly Diagnosed With Autism: Participatory Research Design. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2020; 3:e15786. [PMID: 32996890 PMCID: PMC7557446 DOI: 10.2196/15786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The internet provides an ideal avenue to share information, advice, and support regarding autism. However, many websites lack quality control and rarely provide a one-stop resource for families to access necessary, evidence-based information. OBJECTIVE This study aims to use participatory action research (PAR) with end users (ie, parents) and clinicians to develop a web-based resource (Pathways Beyond Diagnosis) to improve timely access to quality, evidence-based information, and support for families after their child is diagnosed with autism. METHODS The PAR approach involves 4 phases: (1) cooperative researcher-stakeholder planning, (2) cooperative researcher-stakeholder-based action, (3) stakeholder observation, and (4) cooperative researcher-stakeholder reflection. A total of 15 participants (parents, n=3; clinicians, n=9; and researchers, n=3) attended individual or group participatory design workshops. This was followed by the translation of knowledge and ideas generated during the workshops to produce mockups of webpages and content, rapid prototyping, and one-on-one consultations with end users to assess the usability of the website developed. RESULTS A total of 3 participatory design workshops were held with the participants, each followed by a knowledge translation session. At the end of the PAR cycle, an alpha prototype of the website was built and a series of one-on-one end user consultation sessions were conducted. The PAR cycle revealed the importance of 6 key topic areas (understanding autism, accessing services, support, gaining funding, putting it all together, and looking into the future) associated with the time of diagnosis, which were incorporated into the beta version of the website. CONCLUSIONS The development of the Pathways Beyond Diagnosis website using PAR ensures that families have ready access to practical and evidence-based information following a young child's diagnosis. The website guides families to access relevant, reputable, and evidence-based information in addition to summarizing key challenges encountered after diagnosis (ie, grief, sharing the diagnosis) and the importance of self-care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aspasia Stacey Rabba
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, Australia
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, Australia
| | - Josephine Barbaro
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, Australia
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Bellon-Harn ML, Ni J, Manchaiah V. Twitter usage about autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 24:1805-1816. [PMID: 32508126 DOI: 10.1177/1362361320923173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Stakeholders within autism spectrum disorder communities use Twitter for specific purposes. The goal of this study was to characterize patterns and themes of tweet content and sentiment and intercommunications between users sending and retweeting content to their respective user networks. The study used cross-sectional analysis of data generated from Twitter. Twitter content, sentiment, users, and community networks were examined from a sample of tweets with the highest Twitter reach and the lowest Twitter reach. Results indicate that Twitter content from both samples was primarily related to empowerment and support. Differences between the number of tweets originating from an individual in the lowest reach sample (i.e. 41%) as compared to the individuals in the highest reach sample (i.e. 18%) were noted. The number of users belonging to an advocacy subcommunity was substantially larger than a clinical and research subcommunity. Results provide insight into the presuppositions of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, their families and significant others, and other stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vinaya Manchaiah
- Lamar University, USA.,Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India
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12
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Adams D, Roche L, Heussler H. Parent perceptions, beliefs, and fears around genetic treatments and cures for children with Angelman syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2020; 182:1716-1724. [PMID: 32449301 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Genetic therapies have shown recent promise in alleviating some of the cognitive issues associated with some genetic disorders; however, these therapies may come with significant health and socio-ethical concerns, particularly when they involve child participants. Little is known about what parents of children with genetic disorders think about genetic therapies, or about their knowledge of how genetic-based therapy might treat their child's symptoms. Forty-two parents of children with Angelman syndrome (AS) and 27 parents of a mixed etiology comparison group completed an online survey reporting on their perceptions of, and priorities for, genetic therapy. Almost all parents of children with AS (95%) and the comparison group (89%) agreed that treatments aiming to reduce symptoms associated with their child's syndrome were positive. However, significantly more parents of children with AS (95%) than the comparison group (56%) felt that genetic treatment trials aiming to "cure" their child should be a research priority. AS parent priorities for the focus of clinical trials were neurology/seizures, communication skills, and motor skills/mobility. For the comparison group, the priorities were IQ, immune response, and expressive speech. Parents of both groups did not want treatments to change their child's personality or their happiness. Global assumptions cannot be made about targets for therapy between syndromes, about parental understanding of genetics, or about research evidence across syndromes. This study highlights the need for true family and patient engagement in all stages of the research design and treatment evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn Adams
- Autism Centre of Excellence, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Laura Roche
- Autism Centre of Excellence, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Helen Heussler
- Centre for Clinical Trials in Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Children's Health Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Children's Health Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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13
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Kamp-Becker I, Stroth S, Stehr T, Weber L. Segen oder Fluch? Das Internet als Informationsquelle über Autismus und Asperger-Syndrom. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER-UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2020; 48:133-143. [DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917/a000693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung. Fragestellung: Sehr viele Menschen informieren sich heutzutage über gesundheitsrelevante Themen im Internet, wobei die Qualität dieser Informationen fraglich ist. In der vorliegenden Studie soll beispielhaft für ein psychisches Störungsbild (Autismus-Spektrum-Störung) die Qualität der Informationsquelle Internet sowie die sich daraus ergebenden Implikationen diskutiert werden. Methodik: Es wurde eine systematische Auswertung von 96 deutschsprachigen Internetseiten durchgeführt mit dem Ziel, neben konkreten Charakteristika der Internetseiten auch die Zuverlässigkeit der Publikationen, die Informationsdarstellung sowie die Gesamtqualität der Internetseiten zu bewerten und die sich aus der Darstellung ergebenden klinischen Implikationen zu analysieren. Ergebnisse: Nur bei 39 % der Internetseiten ließen sich Referenzen für wissenschaftlich fundierte Informationen feststellen, Werbung war hingegen auf 53 % der Internetseiten vorhanden. Die meisten falschen Informationen wurden im Bereich der „Behandlung“ (17 %) verbreitet. Bei 75 % der Internetseiten traf die Vollständigkeit nicht zu. Lediglich 10 % der Internetseiten thematisierte die Beeinträchtigung bzw. Belastung der Familien. Die Qualität der Seiten wurde bei 30 % als ungenügend, bei 41 % als mangelhaft und nur bei 6 % als gut beurteilt. Schlussfolgerungen: Ähnlich wie durch die bereits vorliegenden Analysen zu englischsprachigen Internetseiten festgestellt, können für viele der deutschsprachigen Seiten deutliche Qualitätsmängel konstatiert werden. Die Implikationen in Bezug auf Bestätigungsfehler, Stigmatisierung, Überidentifikation, Ingroup-Outgroup-Effekte, Kontrast- und Schneeballeffekte werden diskutiert.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Kamp-Becker
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg
| | - Sanna Stroth
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg
| | - Thomas Stehr
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg
| | - Lisa Weber
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg
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Bellon-Harn ML, Manchaiah V, Morris LR. A cross-sectional descriptive analysis of portrayal of autism spectrum disorders in YouTube videos: A short report. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 24:263-268. [PMID: 31303030 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319864222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Professionals have expressed concerns about the quality of autism-related information available from Internet-based sources. The purpose of this study was to examine the source, content, usability, and actionability of autism spectrum disorder-related information contained in 100 different videos directed to families of children with autism spectrum disorder uploaded to YouTube. Upload sources were identified, and video content was coded. Understandability and actionability of the videos were examined using Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials. The collective number of views of the videos was almost 100 million. The length of videos was 691.17 min (i.e. 11.5 h) with the shortest video being 30 s and the longest video being 37.36 min. The YouTube videos related to autism spectrum disorder covered a range of issues, although much of the content was focused on signs and symptoms. No difference in content reporting was noted based on sources for most categories, although differences were noted in some categories (e.g. professionals mentioned diagnosis and resources more frequently). Poor understandability and actionability scores (i.e. below 70%) were reported for all videos regardless of video source. However, the videos generated by the professionals were superior in terms of understandability. Study implications and recommendations for further research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vinaya Manchaiah
- Lamar University, USA.,Manipal University, India.,Audiology India, India
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15
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Alnemary FM, Alnemary FM, Alamri AS, Alamri YA. Characteristics of Arabic Websites with information on autism. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 22:143-145. [PMID: 28416788 PMCID: PMC5726822 DOI: 10.17712/nsj.2017.2.20160574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To explore the characteristics of Arabic websites with information on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: The word autism in Arabic was entered into 2 popular search engines in September 2013 to locate the top 80 websites featuring the term. Websites were sorted using 10 characteristics, previously used to evaluate the characteristics of English websites with information on ASD. Results: Most websites were registered using a.com top-level domain (69%), were an individual’s site, forum, or blog (44%), and were updated after September 2012 (60%); they contained images or texts that seemed to persuade viewers to purchase products (43%); they provided information with the name of author(s) (64%); they described the basic characteristics of ASD; and they promoted various types of treatments, most of which lack empirical support (63%). However, few websites contained information with references to peer review resources (3%) or a warning statement that such information should not replace the opinion of a qualified professional (8%). Conclusion: Internet users may not find Arabic websites to be reliable sources to obtain information on ASD. Given the increased use of the internet, creation of websites that contain trusted information on ASD could potentially aid parents in accessing available services, help them learn about empirically validated interventions, and enable them to advocate for their children’s rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad M Alnemary
- University of California, Los Angeles, California,United States of America. E-mail:
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16
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The New Trend of Pre-pectoral Breast Reconstruction: An Objective Evaluation of the Quality of Online Information for Patients Undergoing Breast Reconstruction. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2019; 43:593-599. [PMID: 30710175 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-019-01311-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The Web has increasingly become the major source of information about health care, and patients who need to undergo breast reconstruction often use the internet to acquire an initial knowledge on the subject. We would like to present our study that investigates the quality of published information on pre-pectoral breast reconstruction. We searched the term "Pre-pectoral breast reconstruction" on Google® and Yahoo®. Forty-two web sites were selected and underwent qualitative and quantitative assessment using the expanded EQIP tool. The analysis of document contents showed a critical lack of information about qualitative risks and side-effects descriptions, treatment of potential complications, alert signs for the patient and precautions that the patient may take. Health professionals should inform patients about the potential difficulties of identifying reliable informational web sites about pre-pectoral breast reconstruction. The quality of available information should be improved, especially the important topics included in the content data section of the modified EQIP tool.Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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17
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Anthony BJ, Robertson HA, Verbalis A, Myrick Y, Troxel M, Seese S, Anthony LG. Increasing autism acceptance: The impact of the Sesame Street "See Amazing in All Children" initiative. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 24:95-108. [PMID: 31113212 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319847927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To promote knowledge and acceptance of autism, Sesame Workshop created an online initiative: See Amazing in All Children. This nationwide evaluation of See Amazing assessed whether it increased knowledge and acceptance, promoted community inclusion, reduced parenting strain, and enhanced parenting competence. Survey responses were collected online from parents of children (age ⩽ 6) with and without autism before (N = 1010), 1 week after (N = 510), and, for parents of autistic children, 1 month after (N = 182) they viewed the See Amazing materials. Following exposure, parents of non-autistic children showed small but significant increases in knowledge of autism and, like parents of autistic children, greater acceptance of autistic children. Parents of autistic children reported less strain, increased parenting competence, and more hope about involving their child in their community. That the See Amazing materials invoked positive changes in the general parent community and in parents of autistic children suggests that See Amazing materials have the potential to be an effective resource to increase acceptance and community inclusion, although limitations of self-selection, dropout rate, and lack of control group constrain interpretation. Implications include support for targeting acceptance as a step beyond awareness campaigns, though actual behavior change is a subject for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno J Anthony
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA.,Georgetown University, USA
| | | | | | | | - Mary Troxel
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA
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Melvin K, Meyer C, Ryan B. "We don't know what we don't know": Providing information about communication to families of children with Down syndrome. Child Care Health Dev 2019; 45:423-432. [PMID: 30869805 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Children with Down syndrome often present with a communication disability, and families require information to support their child's communication. Effective provision of information by professionals is an important part of family-centred practice. However, we currently do not know the specific communication information needs of families of children with Down syndrome. This study aimed to (1) explore families' experiences of communication information provision and (2) identify families' preferences regarding when, what and how they would like to receive information about communication. METHOD A qualitative descriptive approach was used to explore the experiences and information needs of nine family members of children with Down syndrome aged 0-15 years. Data from semistructured, in-depth interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Three core themes were identified: (1) We want more information about communication to be provided by professionals now and into the future so we can be "self-help people." (2) We want general information resources that help us support our child's communication. (3) We want to have a two-way partnership with professionals so we can share and receive specific information about our child's communication. CONCLUSION Ineffective information provision restricts families' capacity to be self-help people in supporting communication development. Ongoing provision of both general and specific information about communication is needed in different formats. This study informs the development of resources to better meet families' information needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn Melvin
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Carly Meyer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Brooke Ryan
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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19
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Walsh K, Pryor TAM, Reynolds KA, Walker JR. Searching for answers: How well do depression websites answer the public's questions about treatment choices? PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2019; 102:99-105. [PMID: 30150127 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2018.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate websites providing information on treatment for depression to the public, and to evaluate changes in the quality of website information over time. METHODS Websites (N = 25) addressing depression treatment were identified through the use of the Google search engine and by suggestions from healthcare professionals. Each website was evaluated based on the extent to which it addressed content areas deemed important by the public identified in previous research, overall quality as determined by the DISCERN, and reading level. RESULTS Overall, the quality of depression websites varied greatly. The majority of websites did not adequately answer the public's questions about treatment options, and presented higher quality information in the area of pharmacological treatments as compared to other treatment options. An average reading level of 10.0 was found across websites. Upon re-evaluation, only 14 of 25 websites added new content, and the majority of websites did not improve in their overall website quality (as measured by the DISCERN). CONCLUSION AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Websites could be improved by addressing important questions that consumers have concerning depression, as well as by creating higher quality content in the areas of psychological, neurotherapeutic, and alternative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Walsh
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, University of Manitoba, 363 Tache Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 0G1, Canada
| | - Teaghan A M Pryor
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, P313 Duff Roblin Building, 190 Dysart Road, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Kristin A Reynolds
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, P313 Duff Roblin Building, 190 Dysart Road, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | - John R Walker
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, University of Manitoba, 363 Tache Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 0G1, Canada
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20
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Arif N, Ghezzi P. Quality of online information on breast cancer treatment options. Breast 2018; 37:6-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Dinora P, Bogenschutz M, Lynch K. Factors That May Influence Parent Treatment Decision Making for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 16:377-395. [DOI: 10.1080/1536710x.2017.1392395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Parthenia Dinora
- Partnership for People with Disabilities, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Matthew Bogenschutz
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Kathleen Lynch
- Partnership for People with Disabilities, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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22
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Kamp-Becker I, Poustka L. [Between Hype and Hope – considerations for research in autism spectrum disorders]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER-UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2017; 45:175-179. [PMID: 28523973 DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917/a000527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Inge Kamp-Becker
- 1 Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg
| | - Luise Poustka
- 2 Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universität Göttingen.,3 Universitätsklinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Medizinische Universität Wien
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23
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Online Dissemination of Resources and Services for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs): a Systematic Review of Evidence. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-016-0083-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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24
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Grant N, Rodger S, Hoffmann T. Intervention decision-making processes and information preferences of parents of children with autism spectrum disorders. Child Care Health Dev 2016; 42:125-34. [PMID: 26489390 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2015] [Revised: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND When a child is diagnosed with autism, parents are faced with the task of choosing from many different intervention options. To find information about the options available, parents turn to a number of different sources. This study explores parents' (n = 23) intervention decision-making processes and information preferences following the diagnosis of ASD for their child. METHODS Qualitative thematic analysis of verbatim transcripts from interviews and focus groups involving parents of children with an autism diagnosis was undertaken. RESULTS Analysis of the results revealed that there are concurrent emotional and pragmatic intervention 'journeys' undertaken by parents post diagnosis, which encompass the primary themes of: (1) information sources used, (2) parents' information preferences and (3) factors influencing intervention decision making. Parents described a journey from the point of diagnosis that involved seeking information on ASD interventions from multiple sources, with the Internet being the primary source. They were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available, and their preferences for information varied according to their stage in the journey post diagnosis. Parents had a 'trial and error' approach to choosing ASD interventions, with confidence increasing as they became more familiar with their child's condition, and had opportunities to explore numerous information sources about their child's diagnosis. While confidence increased over time, consideration of the effectiveness or evidence supporting interventions remained largely absent throughout the journey. CONCLUSION This study highlights the need for parents of children with ASD to be supported to make informed intervention decisions, particularly with consideration for research evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Grant
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - S Rodger
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Autism CRC), Brisbane, Australia
| | - T Hoffmann
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Centre for Research in Evidence-Based Practice, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
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25
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Hrdlicka M, Vacova M, Oslejskova H, Gondzova V, Vadlejchova I, Kocourkova J, Koutek J, Dudova I. Age at diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders: is there an association with socioeconomic status and family self-education about autism? Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2016; 12:1639-44. [PMID: 27462156 PMCID: PMC4940008 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s107239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The marked increase in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) prevalence has stimulated worldwide interest in exploring broader circumstances of care of autistic children, including the role of socioeconomic status (SES) and family information on autism. METHODS Our sample comprised of 160 children who participated in a diagnostic examination focused on autism, and their parents who completed a simple descriptive questionnaire focusing on the family situation as well as family self-education about autism. The diagnosis of ASD was confirmed in 120 children (75% of the sample; 94 boys, 26 girls) with mean age 6.2±2.7 years (median 5.3, range 2.2-17.2 years). In 71 autistic patients (59.2%), a diagnosis of mental retardation was also established. RESULTS The age at diagnosis of ASD correlated negatively with maternal (P=0.014) and paternal (P=0.002) ages at the time of birth of the ASD child as well as with paternal (P=0.002) and maternal (P=0.050) education. The age at diagnosis of ASD did not correlate with family SES. Mothers were significantly more active in seeking information on autism than fathers or both parents equally (80 vs 9 vs 28 cases, respectively; P<0.001). The mean number of information sources on autism was 3.5±1.8 with a range 0-9. The mean number of resources did not differ among the three SES groups (3.50 vs 3.49 vs 4.25, respectively; P=0.704). The mean number of sources did not correlate with the age at diagnosis of ASD. The most often used sources were the Internet (81.7%), followed by psychologists (48.3%), books (46.7%), and child and adolescent psychiatrists (43.3%). CONCLUSION An earlier diagnosis of ASD is associated with higher parental age at birth and higher parental education but not with family SES or number of family information sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Hrdlicka
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Charles University Second Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Prague
| | - Maria Vacova
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Charles University Second Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Prague
| | - Hana Oslejskova
- Department of Child Neurology, Masaryk University Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Brno
| | - Veronika Gondzova
- Department of Child Neurology, Masaryk University Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Brno
| | | | - Jana Kocourkova
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Charles University Second Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Prague
| | - Jiri Koutek
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Charles University Second Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Prague
| | - Iva Dudova
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Charles University Second Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Prague
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Reichow B, Gelbar NW, Mouradjian K, Shefcyk A, Smith IC. Characteristics of international websites with information on developmental disabilities. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2014; 35:2293-2298. [PMID: 24952371 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2014.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The Internet often serves as a primary resource for individuals seeking health-related information, and a large and growing number of websites contain information related to developmental disabilities. This paper presents the results of an international evaluation of the characteristics and content of the top 10 ranked results (i.e., not including sponsored results - pay-per-click) returned when one of five terms related to developmental disabilities (i.e., ADHD, autism, down syndrome, learning disability, intellectual disability) was entered into one of six country specific Google online search engines (i.e., Australia (https://www.google.com.au), Canada (https://www.google.ca), Ireland (https://www.google.ie), New Zealand (https://www.google.co.nz), the United Kingdom (https://www.google.co.uk), and the United States (https://www.google.com)) on October 22, 2013. Collectively, we found that international consumers of websites related to developmental disabilities will encounter different websites with differing content and terminology, and should be critical consumers to ensure they locate the information they are seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Reichow
- A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Community Medicine and Health Care, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Nicholas W Gelbar
- A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Community Medicine and Health Care, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Keri Mouradjian
- A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Community Medicine and Health Care, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Allison Shefcyk
- A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Community Medicine and Health Care, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Isaac C Smith
- A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Community Medicine and Health Care, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
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Grant N, Rodger S, Hoffmann T. Evaluation of Autism-Related Health Information on the Web. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2014; 28:276-82. [PMID: 25224690 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Internet is a frequently accessed source of information for parents of a child with autism. To help parents make informed decisions about treatment options, websites should contain accurate information. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of information in a sample of autism-relevant websites. MATERIALS AND METHODS Autism-related keywords were entered into three widely used search engines in April 2013 and the 20 most frequently appearing sites identified. Website quality was rated, by two independent raters, using the DISCERN tool. Websites were also coded according to the type of references/sources provided to support the intervention content presented. RESULTS The mean DISCERN score was 46.5 (range 23-67.5), of a possible 80. Information about treatment risks and no treatment as an option was rarely described. Only six (30%) websites provided research references when describing intervention options. CONCLUSIONS Many websites did not meet criteria for quality health information and failed to cite evidence supporting described interventions. Implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Grant
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Sylvia Rodger
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Tammy Hoffmann
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Centre for Research in Evidence-Based Practice, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia
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28
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Groselj D. A webometric analysis of online health information: sponsorship, platform type and link structures. ONLINE INFORMATION REVIEW 2014. [DOI: 10.1108/oir-01-2013-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
– This study aims to map the information landscape as it unfolds to users when they search for health topics on general search engines. Website sponsorship, platform type and linking patterns were analysed in order to advance the understanding of the provision of health information online.
Design/methodology/approach
– The landscape was sampled by ten very different search queries and crawled with VOSON software. Drawing on Roger's framework of information politics on the web, the landscape is described on two levels. The front-end is examined qualitatively by assessing website sponsorship and platform type. On the back-end, linking patterns are analysed using hyperlink network analysis.
Findings
– A vast majority of the websites have commercial and organisational sponsorship. The analysis of the platform type shows that health information is provided mainly on static homepages, informational portals and general news sites. A comparison of ten different health domains revealed substantial differences in their landscapes, related to domain-specific characteristics.
Research limitations/implications
– The size and properties of the web crawl were shaped by using third party software, and the generalisability of the results is limited by the selected search queries. Further research exploring how specific characteristics of different health domains shape provision of information online is suggested.
Practical implications
– The demonstrated method can be used by organisations to discern the characteristics of the online information landscape in which they operate and to inform their business strategies.
Originality/value
– The study examines health information landscapes on a large scale and makes an original contribution by comparing them across ten different health domains.
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Reichow B, Shefcyk A, Bruder MB. Quality comparison of websites related to developmental disabilities. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2013; 34:3077-3083. [PMID: 23891722 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2013.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The Internet is commonly used to seek health-related information, but little is known about the quality of websites on developmental disabilities. Therefore, we sought to evaluate the characteristics and quality of websites located by searching ten common terms related to developmental disabilities and explore relations between website characteristics and website quality in order to make recommendations on ways to ensure locating good online information. We located 208 unique websites in our November 2012 US searches of Google and Bing. Two independent coders evaluated 10 characteristics of the websites and two different coders assessed the quality of the websites. From the 208 websites, 104 (50%) provided relevant information about the disability being searched. Of these 104 websites, those found to be of highest quality were least likely to be a sponsored result, contain advertisements, be from a for-profit company, and did contain references to peer-reviewed publications or had a top-level domain of .gov or .org. Individuals with developmental disabilities and their family members who choose to obtain disability-related information online should remain vigilant to ensure that they locate high-quality and accurate information and should not replace information obtained from health-care professionals and educational specialists with information found online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Reichow
- A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA.
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Reichow B, Naples A, Steinhoff T, Halpern J, Volkmar FR. Brief report: consistency of search engine rankings for autism websites. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 42:1275-9. [PMID: 22350454 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-012-1480-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The World Wide Web is one of the most common methods used by parents to find information on autism spectrum disorders and most consumers find information through search engines such as Google or Bing. However, little is known about how the search engines operate or the consistency of the results that are returned over time. This study presents the results of analyses of searches from 2009, 2010, and 2011 for information on autism. We found that over time, consumers are likely to have different search experiences yielding different results, and we urge consumers to use caution when using the World Wide Web to obtain information on autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Reichow
- Yale Child Study Center, 230 South Frontage Road, New Haven, CT 06519, USA.
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