Autism and Asperger Syndrome in Adults

by Luke Beardon

Estimated to affect just over 1 per cent of the adult population in the UK - some 700,000 individuals – autism is still persistently viewed as a disorder or impairment – but, this concept needs to be challenged. Written by a university lecturer with several years’ experience in the field, this book presents an up-to-date overview of autism and Asperger syndrome, and comments on the realities of adult life including further and higher education, employment, dating and parenthood. For autistic children, teenagers and adults, their families and friends, and any professionals interested in autism. Topics and what’s preferredCommon myths and stereotypesDiagnosis and related issuesTips for undiagnosed adults Understanding how autism impacts on the individualSensory issuesTransition into adulthoodFriendships and intimate relationshipsThe Criminal Justice System - what happens when autistic people break the lawIn this sensitive and insightful book, Dr Luke Beardon asserts that there are many hugely intelligent, empathic, kind, caring, loyal and skilled autistic individuals – so it’s time to treat them as such and respect their differences.

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Nonfiction, Psychology, Self Help, Mental Health, Reference, Health

128 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 18, 2017

Reviews

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This might be a good introduction to autism for non-autistic adults who may be dealing with autistic adults. In no small part because it's short. (116 actual pages.) The first two chapters come off as very whiny though with non-stop grumbling about labels.

The book is mostly written about autistic adults rather than to them, although the sensory section (chapter 6) is explicitly stated as being written to the autistic community. It's basically just a list of potential sensory issues though, devoid of any useful advice on coping with those problems. Chapter 8 on academic study might be of slight interest to an autistic teen considering college, but note this is a British book and some things will not be 100% applicable in the US.

[Aurélien Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Here's a nice and straightforward introduction to Autism and Asperger. There's, indeed, a lot of points to like and take onboard in this very short little book (about 100 pages), written by someone who, over the past decades, has been 'a support worker, an outreach worker, a service co-ordinator, a project officer, a development officer, an autism consultant, a trainer, a researcher and a lecturer - all within the autism field'!

Dr Luke Beardon keeps here putting the point across: every individuals is unique, and, so, it would be futile and counterproductive, if not demeaning, to adopt a 'right size fit all' attitude when attempting to deal with the adults concerned. It starts with terminology: should we talk about autistic people, or, people with autism? The debate is raging (and I personally am not surprised, in these days of rampant emotionalism...) yet silly. As the author bangs it with common sense: either or, the choice belongs to the person being labelled, and, since such choice will vary from one individual to the next there is no right or wrong! But here's not the most important.

The most important is why individuality is the most relevant factor to be acknowledged. Focusing (strongly) on personalities, this is where he throws some darts at the DSM. Yes, Autism and Asperger are part of a spectrum; but the DSM defines each in such a narrow way that it doesn't help at all. In fact, such highly questionable sub-categorisations just leads to making assumptions, and so have expectations, all based on where on the spectrum individuals have been diagnosed... which is bonkers since all individuals will be unique and so not fit into such clinical ticked-boxes! I love that because, being a Care Support Worker dealing with autistic people, I constantly see that in my job: skills, abilities, preferences, and, so, needs in terms of support vary greatly from one person to the next, despite all having the same diagnosis. Dr Luke Beardon nails a point through an equation: autism + environment = outcomes. After all, that's how it works for what he calls PNB (Predominant Neurotype Brains) so why would it be different for non-neurotypical people?

'I believe that the term autism should be used to cover all individuals who are autistic. In doing so, one would be forced then to ascertain specifically how autism affects each individual (at that time, within that environment), rather than making assumptions related to the term itself.'

This is in fact the whole point here: autism is a set of features (that the author outlines very clearly) but such features will express themselves differently from one person to the next. The author actually goes one step further: addressing neurotypicals, he warns against echopraxic behaviours that is, autistic people sometimes going at such a great length to mask their condition so as to fit in that they may appear like having no condition at all, and so no need of support (women seems to be particularly good at this). An awareness of autism is here needed, for it might lead to a greater understanding and therefore tolerance.

Another strong feature of this book I really enjoyed is how it sails away from autism being perceived as a disorder, or impairment, to, on the contrary, celebrate it as a strength. Sure, it can be an harrowing and severely debilitating condition, and Dr Luke Beardon doesn't deny that. But, here he addresses mainly autistic people who have the mental capacity to be able to engage in society (study, work, marry, have kids etc.) and, as he points out in a whole chapter, such individuals can be very proud of their autism indeed!

On the other hand, where I found the book getting weak is in the ending chapters, focusing on schooling, employment, and relationships (romantic and parenting). Who is his target audience? Autistic people? Educational institutions and employers? Neurotypicals? Well, all of them at once, which, I felt, quite diluted his message -addressing everybody ends up addressing nobody. Nice points are being made when it comes to suggestions in terms of reasonable adjustments (and in debunking a few other myths!) but his solutions are too light, if it's his job to bring solutions at all!

Regardless, here's a very good read challenging the perception of what it means to be autistic. I cannot but recommend it to anyone interested in the topic, and, above all, neurotypicals. We all have prejudices (mine were blown apart when I start working as a Support Worker). Sadly, the 'official' sub-categorisations purported by clinical manuals (e.g. the DSM, itself very controversial even among professionals...) doesn't help in our perception, and, so, in our dealing with autistic people. As an inclusive society we clearly can do better! Well, this book offers right insights, welcome demystifications, and, a few pointers to make things better. A necessary stance!

[Maxine (Booklover Catlady) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is by far one of the best books on Aspergers in adults I've read, and I've read a lot. I feel I'm well qualified to rate this book being a woman with Aspergers myself. Full review on way bit I'll be recommending this one to everybody I know would love this book.

[Rosemary Standeven · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was not too much new for me in this book, but it was well written and presented. For my review, I have chosen some quotes, which sum up the book’s main points:

“Autism refers to a neurotype that leads to a cognition that is qualitatively different from that of the PNT (predominant neurotype) in the way that information specific to communication, social interpretation and interaction is processed and understood; and to a perceptual reality of the sensory environment that differs considerably from one individual to the next. One of the major problems when it comes to trying to define or categorize autism is that very often it is described in behavioural terms – in other words, ‘people with autism do this’, or ‘autistic children do that’. This is simply not applicable across the whole population. If there were such a thing as ‘autistic behaviour’ then we would be able to identify autism simply by identifying that behaviour. There is no ‘set of behaviours’ that is purely autistic either – the same principle applies. There is no behaviour that an autistic person displays that isn’t displayed by the non-autistic population. There is no behaviour displayed by the PNT that isn’t found in the autistic population.
“The medical model identifies autism as a deficit – something to be fixed, cured, or changed for the better. The social model, on the other hand, implies that any problem that a ‘disabled’ person might have is rooted in the environment – i.e. within society … changes and adaptations within society will reduce or eliminate the negative issues faced.”
… “the calm, ‘appropriate’ exterior ‘face’ often belies the extreme chaos and frantic brain activity that is unseen.”
“The mental energy that is required to constantly wear a mask cannot be underestimated, nor can the impact the effort will subsequently have on the individual, both from day to day and in the longer term.”
“The most important message, I believe, in relation to masking is to listen to and believe autistic adults when they are able to articulate their realities. When someone tells us how exhausting life can be, let’s not force them to somehow prove it, but instead let’s accept that this is the case.”

Much of the advice for autistic persons, or those dealing with them, can also be of value in a much wider setting. Making adjustments to the environment to lessen the stress for autistic persons and to thereby reduce the discrimination they may experience, is also essential for those of us who are physically disabled or who have mental health issues. We all need understanding and tolerance – and we all need to be listened to, as those affected, are those who know what is needed – and when it is needed. The advice on starting university is applicable to all potential students.
I would recommend this book to anyone who comes into contact with autistic persons (not just adults) and wants to understand more about their experiences and needs.

[Márcia Balsas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Direto e acessível. Claro. Optimista.

[Kay Cheung · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, yes.
This book presents remarkably intuitive explanations for the behaviour of adults with Aspergers, for the misunderstandings that occur in our interactions with neurotypicals, and all the issues which radiate out from that.
I felt the author missed some of the very real difficulties associated with parenting, perhaps from a desire to counter negative perceptions. Still, I agreed with the overall message, which matches my own view - that autistic behaviours are highly sensitive to environmental factors - which in turn are entirely dependent on the degree of understanding and acceptance in those around us.
Highly recommended.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

100% recommend this book!

As an autistic adult myself: If someone is going to read just one book about autistic adults, this is the book I recommend!

It's easy to read, short, and the author listens to autistic adults.

Please learn about autistic adults from us or from non-autistic people who listen to us. This book is a great place to start no matter what your connection to autism may be.

[Sippy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very sensible book that resonates in many ways. But at times too vague, i.e. chapter 10 makes no sense and is just a pile of seemingly 'loose' experiences without any synthesis thus very unsatisfactory.

[Emanuel]

Um livro que me descreve melhor do que eu alguma vez conseguiria está para lá de ratings e estrelinhas.

[Xan Rooyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars

While this is definitely one of the best books on autism in adults I've read since I started devouring content on this topic, I have to admit I was a little disappointed by the constant use of binary gender. The author insists on using 'he or she' or switching between these two pronouns throughout the book when singular they would easily have sufficed. The author also doesn't acknowledge or address gender identity or sexuality within the autistic population at all - except for one little sentence at the very end, which to me seemed a big omission considering some studies have shown a correlation between LGBT+ identities and autism. I think this should've received its own chapter in the book.

I also feel that many of these chapters could easily have become books unto themselves. This the author acknowledges but was trying to give as broad an overview in as succinct a volume as possible.

For those put off by the title, rest assured the author addresses this in the book.

I think what I appreciated most about this book was the author's emphasis on the fact that autism manifests and presents in highly individual ways, not only unique to the person but unique even to changing daily circumstances.

There is a lot of great content here and I think it's a particularly good starting point for the NT population (or PNTs as the author calls them) to better understand autism and the autistic perspective. It is by no means a perfect resource but it is the first one that has made autism seem like neither a disability nor a superpower but simply a different mode of being and I appreciated that immensely.

[Marc ZEIMET · Rating 5 out of 5]

A popular feature on the subject of Autism raised the interest to know more about the syndrome. The choice of this publication by Dr Luke Beardon has been a very opportune one.
The text looks at common (popular) perceptions and discusses them in-depth, putting a lot of assumptions right and into a differentiated context. Thus, the author shows from the start his expertise and experience in this highly specific field. Autism syndrome based behavioural patterns are also shown in case studies with typical thoughts, conversations and reactions by affected persons. A vivid reflection of this ‘other, different’ world of thought is presented to the reader in this way. Towards the end of the publication ‘Autism’ is shown in different life situations, for instance in schools - up to Higher Education institutions, or in relationships, marriage and parenthood scenarios. It is interesting to hear that the ‘common’ understandings of autisms are still vague, flawed, up to being defamatory and discriminatory, not least of all socially excluding. The boon of the book is provided through the positive depiction of assets that are the ‘gift’ of autistic people, indirectly hinting at society to consider using these talents, skills, motivations and add value to communities overall.
A very convincing insightful and rewarding text to read and study, for sure, not the last one from this knowledgeable author, who, not for nothing, is hailed as one of the leading experts in this clinical research field.

[Aimée · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dr. Beardon ist selbst kein Autist, arbeitet aber seit vielen Jahren mit Eltern, Kindern und Erwachsenen.

Das ist ein absolutes Grundlagenwerk. Falls ihr euch mal gefragt habt, ob sich autistische Menschen wirklich wie Rain Man oder Sheldon verhalten, dann findet ihr hier die Antworten. Falls ihr euch schon mit Autismus beschäftigt habt und wisst, dass den nicht so ist, dann könnt ihr das hier getrost überspringen.

Es hat nur 150 Seiten und ist daher schnell weggelesen, aber selbst die habe ich noch häufig quergelesen.



Für Eltern: Er hat auch "Autism and Asperger Syndrome in Children" verfasst!

[Hess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved Luke's social model of autism, which has given me heaps to think about. Recommended for folks (like me) who are new to the topic but want to learn more.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this a very engaging book. I found myself really wanting to sit down with the author and have a conversation about it and ask him about certain aspects. For example, he rightly points out that it is a myth that people with autism have no sense of humour but somehow presents his examples throughout the book in a way which could easily be seen as confirming uniform humourlessness. He also seems not to draw a distinction between sympathy and empathy, which I think might be useful, and perhaps critical to understanding. I was bemused too by his references to 'co-morbidities' when he comes out strongly against 'disorder' and even 'condition' as applied to autism.
I found his argument that all variants (eg Asperger's) should simply be called autism so that others would be compelled to look at the individual quite interesting. My experience has been that this is not where it leads... certainly not yet (he does not mention PDA at all)
He has lots of very cogent and practical things to say about (and to) autistics out in the world (although I do not think you have to be autistic to want to avoid the company Christmas party) - there is a particularly fine section on friendships, showing the variety of difficulties and not-difficulties-at-all.

[Simon Purdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has been very informative and really encouraging; offering a very supportive and socially progressive view of the autistic spectrum - regardless of the authors stance on Asperger's Syndrome etc. But is worth reading and would recommend this to everyone, though some of the terminology employed may be a challenge for readers who struggle or are dyslexic. But yes, if you can - you should definitely read this. We could all do with being more socially aware and as someone on the autistic spectrum (no we're not all on it, the autistic brain is very different from normal brains - both in terms [as I understand it] of structure and how it works) - as someone on this spectrum, I feel it's time society made an effort to understand rather than bury its head in the sand.

[Livia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply one of the best books about autism that I have read. A must read for all who want to learn about autism. Forget what you've read in the past, Dr Beardon brings things into the modern era and this goes a long way towards autism acceptance.

If everything in Dr Beardon's book was implemented in the workplace, places of education, social interactions or anywhere in the public domain, then the world would be a far richer place. Autistic people are at a distinct disadvantage, particularly in the workplace.

Throughout the book Dr Beardon includes real life examples from actually autistic people some are quite lighthearted and amusing others quite traumatic, but all are valid and important.

If you are an autistic adult, friend, family member or carer then this book is for you.

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is by far one of the best books on the subject of Autism that I have ever read. The overall tone of the book is very humanistic, psychologically speaking, and it's as if you are taking part in a conversation with a well versed colleague. I will definitely recommend this book to helping professionals. It is a great resource for anyone looking to gain, what Dr. Beardon terms, an 'Autistic Theory of Mind.'

[TigerLily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very good book for everyone to read.
This book has really helped me in understanding the problems I've had throughout my life. I was diagnosed with autism 3 years ago. I have been reading about it since trying to understand & overcome my difficulties.
I really enjoyed reading this. It did take me a while to read because I can only read for short periods because of eye strain.

[Helen Mears · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would love it if all my family and friends could read this book. It talks about autism not as an impairment but as a different way of seeing and experiencing the world. It looks at situations through an autistic and a neurotypical lens and shows each how the other might view it. A positive and informative handbook.

[Rosemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because I've been so busy with blog tours I have taken so long to read this book. I finally got a chance to read the last few chapters today. It's not a long book, but it covers a variety of important subjects. I have recommended it to several people for its insight into the Autistic way of processing social, communication and sensory input.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a number of friends who are on the spectrum, reading this was a way to gain insights into their way of thinking. What an absolute gem of a book! I have read academic texts on Autism for uni, but this book brings all the psycho babble down to earth. Personally I think this is a must read not just for those who may be on the spectrum but for their loved ones too.

Highly recommended!

[Pete Little · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very quick read , written very clearly and with real wit. The tree story/joke had me in stitches .. not the sort of thing I was expecting. Not a dry academic journal but a fun to read book that really helped me, a recently diagnosed Aspie in his late 40's , understand himself a bit better.

[Jill Holstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book very straightforward. Easy read. This is written by a person who sees Autism for what it is, a difference in thinking.

A very warm hearted writer with clear understanding, helpful book. Good for AS and NT people. I would recommend this.

[Y T · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book contains some nuggets on how a person with Asperger's and Autism think and perceive things around them.

Interesting view and supports what I've been seeing in others around me. Makes me think at some point I might have gone through the same in terms of my thinking too.

[Alethea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, sweet and optimistic.

[Richard Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book feels personal rather than 'medical', it's a nice approach to the subject.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read.

[RJ Deeds · Rating 1 out of 5]

When an author starts a book saying that you can't really define Autism and then proceeds to try just do that for the next 120 pages, it's hard to see any point to the book ... and unfortunately, that's the way it turned out.

What I understood autism to be before I started was something lacking in the brain which didn't allow autistic people empathise easily with others. This doesn't seem to be the case. What I did take from Dr Beardon was that autism has 2 defining elements:

1. An autistic person is inclined to be overwhelmed if there are too many sensory happenings at one point and
2. An autistic person is inclined towards more literal, logical responses to questions - overly logical in some circumstances.

Other than that, I learned nothing from the book.

The author, for me, lacked any clarity of thought. When he got to the point of comparing the responses of an autistic person to that of a solitary woman in an imaginary world of only men, I found myself switching off completely.

There was something throughout the book I didn't much like. The best way I can express it is that Beardon, who I took not to be autistic (apologies if I got that wrong) was preaching AT me, as if I were stupid. I was hoping at the end of the book I'd be a bit more informed on autism in adults; however, I really felt I came away with nothing (except the 2 points above).

I wouldn't recommend it but maybe others will get something from it.

[Jenna ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this book was written by a neurotypical (non autistic) doctor, but I agreed with almost every word he said, he has clearly spent a lot of time listening to autistic people.

To be honest, at some points I felt like he had written this book specifically about me. Seriously if you want to (try to) understand how my brain works read this book!!! 🫣

The only thing I really objected to was in the section about not wanting to be “top dogs”, the author says:
“They don’t want recognition or acknowledgement, as that level of exposure can be anxiety-inducing in the extreme”

I’m not sure how other autistic people feel about it, but it is absolutely not the case for me. I do not get anxiety from getting praise, I thrive on it. Which probably explains why I have always been a perfectionist at everything I do (a blessing and a curse).

I think I’m over-sharing, hi I’m an over-sharer and this isn’t relevant 👋🏻🤣

This book is perfect for neurotypical (non autistic) people who don’t have a clue about autism. It would be a useful to read if you know someone who is autistic. It will provide you with a better understanding of their way of being, and how they can be accommodated (if necessary).

Although it was nice to see my struggles acknowledged, as an autistic adult I didn’t learn anything I didn’t already know.

[Diane Gabriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and thorough book on what Autism and Asperger Syndrome may look like in adults. It is not one of those books that think that all adults are copy-cutter editions of Autism not unlike each other, he very wisely states that it is a unique assembly of characteristics in the ASD spectrum that make up any individual with Autism.

It's worth mentioning that he did get into the topic of why women are so often missed in diagnosis, and why they are more likely to be diagnosed later in their lives. It's simply down to the outdated method of checking off a list of things that those doing the diagnosis do or don't find that very much damns the person looking for some clarity.

He addresses masking, and the various ways in which echopraxia behaviours lead to further disillusionment and confusion in the Autism community, as social norms can be copied, but never explained if they are effective as generally, most are by nature without follow-up.

Overall, this is a small and quick enough read that I think is helpful when interfacing with a diagnosis, and sharing with SAFE people in your life who may need a bit more background on how your brain works.

He is positive and brings a lifetime of working with the Autism community to his writing.