By Dan Nonte, University Relations
How can therapists and educators best support children with autism and their parents?
Dr. Marion O’Brien of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and her co-author, Dr. Julie Daggett, provide answers in their new book, “Beyond the Autism Diagnosis,” from Brookes Publishing.
O’Brien, director of UNCG’s Family Research Center and a professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, and Daggett, a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in California, based the book on their study of 63 autistic children and their families.
Autism is a mysterious disorder, difficult to diagnose, describe and treat. This ambiguity can add to the frustration and helplessness parents often feel. “Beyond the Autism Diagnosis” promotes better communication between professionals and parents, and thereby better care for children.
Identified in the mid-20th century, autism spectrum disorders appear to affect one in 500 children, according to the National Institutes of Health. They are characterized by repetitive behaviors and impaired communication and social skills, and range from a relatively mild form, Asperger syndrome, to a severe form, autistic disorder.
O’Brien is optimistic that a genetic marker will be found for autism, an advance that would allow earlier intervention. “What we’re learning is that the earlier intervention can begin, the better the long-term outcomes for children,” she said.
She was inspired to work with the families of children with autism in part because she had a brother with undiagnosed Asperger syndrome. She has also worked extensively in early intervention, where she met many families of children with autism who were frustrated because they felt professionals did not understand the challenges they faced in raising their children.
“We hope that by telling families’ stories, our book will help professionals gain insight into what it’s like to live with a child who has autism,” O’Brien said. “When professionals and parents are on the same wavelength, children will benefit.”
