Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MSc)

Department

Health Science

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Dr. Melody Morton Ninomiya

Advisor Role

Supervisor

Second Advisor

Dr. Ketan Shankardass

Advisor Role

Committee Member

Third Advisor

Dr. Janet Mclaughlin

Advisor Role

Committee Member

Abstract

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) refers to impact on the brain and body of individuals who are prenatally exposed to alcohol, estimated to impact 4-8% of Canadians. FASD is a hidden disorder due to reasons such as stigma, lack of training from people who could diagnose, and difficulty in accessing diagnoses. Service providers often work in disciplinary isolation, which contributes to fragmented and inadequate care. In this study, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of service providers in community organizations, health, justice, education, and social services sectors across New Brunswick were analyzed using a mixed-methods approach. Data was obtained through an online survey and interviews, with 387 service providers having accepted the invites to participate in the study and 29 interviewees. Data collection tools were co-developed with the New Brunswick (NB) FASD Centre of Excellence. Surveys were analyzed using SPSS while interview transcripts were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The results were triangulated to elucidate connections between knowledge, attitudes, and practices, which will enable the NB FASD Centre of Excellence to better advocate for individuals with FASD through knowledge mobilization. The results showed relationships between knowledge, attitudes, and practices across service providers that demonstrated that the three influence each other, such as knowledge impacting a practice. In addition, there was a desire for training to better support individuals with FASD. Community involvement with FASD support, the stigma associated with FASD, and the lack of training are discussed. Finally, recommendations that involve knowledge sharing across sectors, collaborative learning opportunities, and centering individuals with FASD are shared.

Convocation Year

2026

Convocation Season

Fall

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Available for download on Saturday, August 18, 2029

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