So You Think You Know Autism?
Dave and Lindsey have college degrees, date each other, hold jobs and own a house in Alexandria. They also have autism.
By now, we are all sadly familiar with the horrific school shooting that unfolded last week in bucolic Newtown, CT. Most of us also probably know that the shooter’s name was Adam Lanza and that he had been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, a condition associated with high-functioning autism. Many of the initial media accounts drew an inaccurate correlation between Asperger’s Syndrome and violence. As someone who is intimately associated with a number of people on the autism spectrum, it is difficult and infuriating to read such vilifying, broad-brush misrepresentations. Thankfully, this week’s media coverage seems to show more balance. In my own research, I came across several pieces that more accurately characterize those on the …
Jeff Matherne
12:39 am on Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Shenita --- check with your local Social Services --- they can often provide a mentor (free of charge) that can assist in socializing your daughter. I am an Autism Behavioral Consultant in Virginia and I can tell you first hand that a good mentor can make a world of difference. Good luck to you and a fantastic article! more ›