Publication: Knowledge and attitude towards attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and its associated factors among primary school teachers in Kuala Muda/Yan, Kedah
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Date
2022
Authors
Ismail, Meriam Tassmas
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Abstract
Introduction: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neuropsychiatric disorder among children. The affected child may suffer both academically and socially in the long run if being undiagnosed and neglected without proper care. School teachers play important role in early detection and appropriate referral as they have regular interaction with the child. The purpose of this study is to determine the knowledge, attitude, and factors affecting the knowledge of primary school teachers about ADHD. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in thirteen government primary schools in Kedah, Malaysia, involving 329 teachers. Data were collected by a self‑administrated questionnaire that include demographic information, knowledge and attitude of teachers regarding ADHD and were analysed by descriptive and analytical statistics. Bivariable and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify factors associated with the knowledge of ADHD. Variables having a p-value < 0.05 at 95% CI were considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 329 respondents (99% response rate) were enrolled in the study. Among them, 70.8% have good knowledge of ADHD. However, they were relatively lacking in terms of the causes, course and treatment of ADHD. Having prior information about ADHD (OR 3.89, 95% CI: 2.26, 6.70) and being keen to know about ADHD (OR 1.82, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.18) were associated with good knowledge. This study also found that teachers have positive attitudes towards children with ADHD.Conclusion: There was a high proportion of teachers having good knowledge on ADHD. It was significantly associated with having prior information regarding ADHD and their interest towards ADHD. Generally, teachers showed positive attitude towards children with ADHD.
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Keywords
ADHD , knowledge