Evaluation of the tools used to measure and diagnose autism spectrum disorder in Algeria from the perspective of specialists working in the hospital specialized in mental and psychological diseases in the state of M'Sila

Abstract

The current study aims to assess the diagnostic tools for autism spectrum disorder in Algeria – a field study at the Specialized Psychiatric Hospital in M'Sila Province. The study relied on an interview tool and was   applied to a sample of 12 specialists, selected purposively. The study followed a descriptive analytical approach. After analyzing the results, the following conclusions were reached:

• The institution does not have a complete multidisciplinary team for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, but only some specialties such as child psychiatrist, psychologist, and speech therapist.
• The most commonly used tools for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder in Algeria are interviews, observation, DSM, ICD, and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS).
• The tools used in the measurement and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder are in a foreign language, which means they lack psychometric properties (validity and reliability) suitable for the Algerian environment.
• The tools used are effective in the measurement and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder according to the number of sessions, duration, age stage, periodic evaluation, and in assessing all aspects.
• Among the obstacles and difficulties faced by specialists in using diagnostic tools for autism spectrum disorder are their insufficient availability in the institution, lack of cooperation from guardians in providing information, and shortage of specialized doctors.