MOST FREQUENT CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DIAGNOSIS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (ASD) BY PEDIATRICIANS.

Authors

  • Ayleen Villarreal Estudiante de la Escuela de Psicología de la Universidad Latina de Panamá
  • Hanley Hartman Estudiante de la Escuela de Psicología de la Universidad Latina de Panamá
  • Rebeca Araúz Estudiante de la Escuela de Psicología de la Universidad Latina de Panamá
  • Raúl Quevedo Estudiante de la Escuela de Psicología de la Universidad Latina de Panamá
  • Whitney Del Cid Estudiante de la Escuela de Psicología de la Universidad Latina de Panamá

Keywords:

diagnosis, common characteristics, autism spectrum disorder, pediatricians

Abstract

The main goal of this study was to explore the most frequent characteristics that pediatricians in Panama identify when making an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis. It was a descriptive research.  22 pediatricians completed a survey. Results looked into level of knowledge about diagnostic criteria, symptoms, and etiology of the disorder. Implications of the study deals with awareness of ASD symptoms in Panama, and as a consequence it will contribute to early detection, timely and efficient treatment for affected children.  Data showed that lack of eye contact, mutism, and language delay were symptoms labeled as needed for pediatricians when diagnosing ASD. Most pediatricians in Panama do not make diagnosis of ASD, and as a common strategy they included referral to a psychologist.

Published

2018-07-01

How to Cite

Villarreal, A., Hartman, H., Araúz, R., Quevedo, R., & Del Cid, W. (2018). MOST FREQUENT CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DIAGNOSIS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (ASD) BY PEDIATRICIANS. Scientific Behavior, 1(1), 26–32. Retrieved from https://revistas.ulatina.edu.pa/index.php/conductacientifica/article/view/14