Validation of the ASKSG with a Parent Sample in the United States.
The 31-item ASKSG is a quick, solid way to measure parent ASD knowledge before therapy starts.
01Research in Context
What this study did
The team wanted a fast way to check what parents already know about autism. They tested the 31-item Autism Spectrum Knowledge Scale—General (ASKSG) with 201 parents across the United States.
Parents filled out the survey online. Researchers ran stats to see if the questions hung together and gave steady scores.
What they found
The ASKSG showed good reliability and validity. In plain words, the scale gives a consistent snapshot of parent ASD knowledge.
Scores ranged from low to high, so the tool can spot who needs more education before treatment starts.
How this fits with other research
Hilton et al. (2010) tried quick play-based screens for toddlers. Like the ASKSG, they wanted something brief, but they looked at child behavior instead of parent knowledge. Both papers push for low-burden tools.
Meir et al. (2012) validated an 18-item pain scale for nonverbal adults with IDD. Their factor-analysis steps mirror the ASKSG process, showing the same math can work for very different topics—pain in adults versus knowledge in parents.
Mahdi et al. (2018) mapped 110 life areas for people with ASD. Their wide lens reminds us that knowing facts (ASKSG) is only one piece; we also need to check strengths and environment.
Why it matters
You can give the ASKSG in five minutes at intake. A low score tells you to front-load parent education, which can boost buy-in and reduce drop-out. No extra training is needed—just print the 31 items and score.
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02At a glance
03Original abstract
Parents play a critical role in the early identification of ASD because of their experiential knowledge and frequent observations of their children. Being knowledgeable about ASD may help parents recognize early signs and symptoms, know to which professionals to express their concerns, and better navigate systems of care. An appropriate measure of ASD knowledge for parents is essential to further understand the importance of ASD knowledge in this population. This study sought to validate the Autism Spectrum Knowledge Scale-General Population Version (ASKSG) with a sample of parents with children under the age of 18 years in the United States. Results indicate that the ASKSG is a valid and reliable measure for use with parents.
Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 2020 · doi:10.1007/s10803-020-04480-w