MIND MATTERS: Autism Simulation & the awesomeness of awe-tism ( autism )

Описание: Dr. Laurie Cestnick, Harvard University / MIT
www.drlauriecestnick.com facebook.com/DrCestnick

When it comes to autism and asperger's many have ' got it wrong ' in that people with the diagnosis tend to be more intelligent than realized. Those lacking communication skills can feel literally trapped in their own bodies. The flailing and hand flapping, humming, rocking and even head banging are attempts to control the sensations of extreme loudness and even burning or tingling sensations. These are not to be confused for lack of intelligence, but simply contending with sensory overload. Examples of incredible talents are provided including those of artist Stephen Wiltshire and now blogger and nonverbal talk show host Carly Fleischmann. Once thought of as mentally retarded yet actually oozing talent and intellect are the themes here. We can all learn from these and many other cases and treat people diagnosed with autism or asperger's with respect.

There are many famous people / celebrities also diagnosed with mild autism / Asperger's including: Daryl Hannah , Dan Aykroyd , Nikola Tesla , and Susan Boyle. DSM V now classifies all prior Asperger's and PDD diagnoses under the umbrella of autism, and areas of weakness are then described for each person along with a level of functioning from 1 (mild) to 3 (severe).

Next week we cover how to manage symptoms of autism.