Impact of Knowledge, Attitude, Familiarity, and Behavior on Autism-Related Community Stigma Among College Students in Ireland

Navarro Mendoza, Andrea Ines (2024) Impact of Knowledge, Attitude, Familiarity, and Behavior on Autism-Related Community Stigma Among College Students in Ireland. Masters thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

This study examines the impact of knowledge, attitude, familiarity and behavior on autism-related community stigma among college students in Ireland. The research is based on a quantitative approach, collecting data though an online survey form 102 college students. The questionnaire measures knowledge, attitude, familiarity and behavior towards autism, along with community stigma. The key findings of this study indicate that attitude and behavior towards an individual with autism are related. It is shown that college students with more negative attitudes tend to distance themselves socially from those who have autism. Knowledge about autism does not significantly influence attitudes but has a complex positive effect on behavior, suggesting that increasing knowledge can improve behavior but is not enough to change attitudes. Regarding familiarity with autism and community stigma, there is not an impactful correlation between these two factors.

The study emphasizes the need for more extensive comprehensive strategies to address knowledge and attitude when it comes to decreasing autism-related community stigma. If knowledge is improved about autism, it can create positive behaviors. In conclusion, reducing autism-related community stigma among college students requires a versatile approach that expands more on knowledge and attitudes. Implementing a mindful, active educational approach regarding an individual with autism can help communities to work towards reducing community stigma.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Supervisors:	Name Email Hargreaves, April UNSPECIFIED
Subjects:	L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > Discrimination H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > Issues of Labour and Work > Employment of People with Disabilities D History General and Old World > DA Great Britain > Ireland
Divisions:	School of Business > Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
Depositing User:	Ciara O'Brien
Date Deposited:	16 Jun 2025 14:27
Last Modified:	16 Jun 2025 14:27
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/7871

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