Autism Intervention by Indian Speech-Language Pathologists - Training and Beliefs

Introduction: The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been reported to rise in recent years, yet there is a lack of extensive research on the perspectives of Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) and their training related to the interventions provided to this population. This highlights the necessity of gaining a deeper insight into the training and beliefs about ASD intervention among SLPs in India. Methods: A total of 217 SLPs filled out the online form as a part of this cross-sectional study. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the training and beliefs of the SLPs regarding ASD intervention. Results: Team collaboration and the professionals’ training and experience were considered the main factors contributing to the success of the intervention given. The major barriers to intervention were a lack of family cooperation and culturally inadequate interventions. Most participants reported using traditional therapy for the intervention of individuals with ASD. Nearly all of them felt the need to increase awareness regarding the interventions available for ASD and upgrade their knowledge and use of evidence-based practice. Specialized training was found to be limited among the Indian SLPs, with clinic training as the common mode of training. Conclusion: Considering the beliefs regarding ASD intervention of the Indian SLPs, it is clear that increased awareness of the various intervention approaches for ASD is the need of the hour. In addition, this study emphasizes the need for increased availability and propaganda of training programs as well as certification courses for the Indian SLPs regarding ASD intervention.