The diagnosis of
autism is on the rise and such a diagnosis terrifies parents. This
book puts into perspective what the diagnosis means and how autistic
people can realize their potential. Autistic people range from the
genius level to being barely able to cope with self-care. However,
each child has potential, and the parents and teachers need
to find ways to bring out their special gifts.
The story of autism
is a long one. Autistic people have always been with us. I
particularly enjoyed the stories of Cavendish, the Wizard of Clapham,
and Paul Dirac. Both men exhibited autistic tendencies, but made
significant contributions to science. High functioning people with
autistic tendencies in the past were considered eccentric. Low
functioning autistic people ended up in asylums.
The book covers Asperger's work with his “little
professors” before the second world war, and the work of Kanner, a child psychiatrist, who suppressed the
knowledge of the autism spectrum proposed by Asperger.
The frightening
controversy over whether the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine
was responsible for pushing susceptible children into autism is
covered in detail, as is the current “neurodiversity” movement.
It also explains how the change in the Diagnostic and Statistical
Manual's criteria for autism led to an expanded diagnosis that had
the appearance of an epidemic.
If you have an
interest in autism, or are working with an autistic child or adult,
this is a must read book. It puts the history of autism in
perspective and with the “neurodiversity” movement gives hope
that with improved teaching and behavioral management skills autistic
people may be able to recognize and use their talents.
I reviewed this book
for Net Galley.
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