A SURVEY OF COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT EPILEPSY

A questionnaire with 33 statements about epilepsy was administered to 202 individuals using a mall survey. Subjects showed good knowledge ab out the personal characteristics and everyday activities of persons wi th epilepsy and treatment of epilepsy, but substantial ignorance was n oted regarding causes of epilepsy, events that trigger seizures, and f irst aid for seizures. Higher rates of misconception endorsement were associated with younger ages, lower education levels, and having the o ccupational status of student. Clinicians may find it helpful to addre ss these areas when working with persons with epilepsy and their famil ies. Further public education, particularly targeting younger persons also appears warranted.