Challenging The Myths Of Autism

by Jonathan Alderson

2012 International Book Award 2015 Non-Fiction Authors Association Silver Award 2016 Mom's Choice Gold Award 2017 National Parenting Products Award How many times have you heard that people with autism lack creativity? That they reject affection or suffer from mental retardation? As the number of children diagnosed with autism surges, researchers and educators are racing to define the amorphous nature of this spectrum disorder and its widerange of symptoms. But in trying to characterize this widely varying group, people often perpetuate a host of limiting andpotentially damaging misconceptions in the media, in academic journals and even in textbooks. These myths don’t hold up when examined, and they don’t reflect Jonathan Alderson’s experience working with more than 2,000 children and familiesover two decades. Provocative and meticulously researched, Challenging theMyths of Autism looks at the most prevalent fallacies, explainshow they developed, examines why dispelling them mattersand, most importantly, sets out a new understanding that will change the way parents and professionals view autism. With examples from his own practice, Alderson charts a whole new realm of possibilities for treatment and research. Visit the www.challengethemyths.com

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder

272 pages, Paperback

First published August 23, 2011

Reviews

[Sam Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading farmwifetwo's review of this book, I felt it necessary to write one of my own. As a practitioner and masters student in the area of autism I have to insist that Challenging the Myths of Autism is one of the most relevant and uplifting books surrounding autism that exists today. Through each chapter of this book I found myself re-thinking my previous learning and broadening my view of the current beliefs surrounding children with autism. Not only does Alderson back up his claims with real-life anecdotes from his successful private practice, but he shows empirical evidence and an in-depth historical account of each myth to allow the reader a complete understanding of each claim.

This book is one that can transform the way autism is viewed by all of society and allows for a positive evolution of the current trends in treatment of those with all levels of autism. More than anything, this book views children as people before viewing them through their disorder. The perception of behaviour as purposive allows for more insight into the mind of a child with autism than is common of most professionals.

It is no wonder that this book recently won the 2012 International Book Award for Best Parenting/Family Reference. The author takes an unbiased approach to a large number of theoretical bases and common practices, and introduces a multi-faceted approach to children with autism that sees each child as unique with their own set of specific needs. The book celebrates interactions with each and every child in a way that should be prevalent in all work with children.

A must read for anyone who has had the joy of working or interacting with someone who has autism.

[Ruth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Goes through the " myths' of socialization, affection,rituals,IQ,the five year window, imagination. not a good 1st book for parents.Author is am Ed M.

[Emma Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Important Read!

This book should be a mandatory read for all educators and childcare workers, as well as for the families of all individuals diagnosed with ASD. It becomes evident that the existing narratives about autism are not only inaccurate but incredibly harmful. The evidence-based perspective shifts suggested in Challenging the Myths of Autism forge a new and promising path in the understanding and treatment of autism.

[Weng Kie Teo · Rating 5 out of 5]

An insightful read. This will change the way many of us as autism parents will view our sons and daughters. It certainly has for me.