Research on autism has historically been plagued by use of inconsistent criteria in defining autistic populations and has consequently often yielded conflicting or ambiguous results. However, a number of developments over the past fifteen years, including the establishment of a consensual definition, has fostered a more comprehensive and conclusive body of literature. The purpose of this study was to compare information accrued from the most recent research to the knowledge and beliefs of a sample of caregivers. Results of the survey indicate that three areas emerge for further in-service training of caregivers: (a) incidence and sex ratio, (b) etiology, and (c) attitudes toward public education of autistic children. Implications for in-service training are discussed.
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