Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Understanding the Diagnosis and Getting Help

by Mitzi Waltz

Autistic spectrum disorders--including autism, pervasive developmental disorders not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Asperger's syndrome, and others--are labels to describe neurological conditions that can affect a person's speech and communication, emotional growth, social skills, and physical and mental abilities. Up to 1 in 150 children in some geographical areas have these conditions; children affected are disproportionately boys. This second edition is for parents (or newly diagnosed adults) who struggle with these neurological conditions that profoundly impact the life of child and family. Author and patient advocate Mitzi Waltz, now studying at the Autism Research Unit in the UK, incorporates the latest medical findings on possible causes for ASDs and on treatments.Topics

528 pages, Paperback

First published July 15, 2002

Reviews

[Chase · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty run-of-the-mill information wise, although the references at the end were helpful, as was the chapter on insurance coverage. The best thing about this particular guide is that, unlike so much of the literature currently available on the autistic spectrum, the author does not ignore the fact that a significant number of people on the spectrum are more than capable of reading up on their own condition. It is not assumed that parents or other caregivers will be the only ones reading, and it is frankly quite refreshing due to that alone.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a really good "introductory" look at autistic spectrum disorders. It covers getting a diagnosis, going through school districts, insurance, and how to deal with the "bureaucracy" of special needs children. It does not include much on parenting strategies, but does a good job of telling you where and how to begin in the diagnostic process.

[Bridgett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Introductory book on autism. Not much new information for those already having learned a lot about autism.