Evaluating general practitioners' knowledge and attitude of autism spectrum disorder and influencing factors at Gondar University Hospital, Gondar, Ethiopia.

ASDs are lifelong neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impaired social interaction, communication challenges, and repetitive behaviors. This study assessed general practitioners' knowledge and attitudes toward ASDs at Gondar University Hospital and explored influencing factors. A cross-sectional study (May 1-June 30, 2023) involved 360 participants selected via convenience sampling. Data were collected using a 19-item self-administered questionnaire covering socioeconomic characteristics (4 items), knowledge (10 items), and attitude (5 items), adapted from previous studies with some modifications. The mean age of participants was 31.82 years, with an average of 18 years post-graduation and 16 years of practice. Knowledge and attitude scores averaged 15.83 (SD = 3.265) and 29.54 (SD = 3.206), respectively, indicating moderate levels. Male practitioners exhibited significantly different attitudes from females (p < 0.001). Weak correlations were found between attitudes and age (r = 0.271, p < 0.001) and practice years (r = 0.105, p = 0.046), while no significant correlation existed between knowledge and demographic factors. A weak but significant correlation was observed between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.004, p < 0.001). General practitioners demonstrated moderate knowledge and attitudes toward ASDs, with attitudes positively linked to experience and knowledge levels.