Social Image of Autism and the Need for Educational Research

Abstract

In this paper, we present the results of an online survey concerning the social perception of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The analysis of the online survey conducted in Poland from March to May 2020, in which 355 Polish speaking respondents took part and which consisted of two parts: closed-ended questions and open-ended statements – shows that there is a cognitively interesting discrepancy between the relatively high level of knowledge declared by respondents and the more negative and stereotypical attitude towards people with ASD visible in the open-ended responses. Particularly noteworthy is the fact that relations between the respondents and neurotypical people are lined with fear, anxiety and insecurity. The survey results seem to unequivocally indicate the necessity for further educational projects that deepen knowledge and raise awareness of people with ASD.