No need to make people normal but autism treatments are essential

By bobb |

An article in The Guardian asks “Do we really need a cure for autism?” (see http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/feb/22/does-autism-need-a-…). Following is my person view ...

This is a complex question. First, let's be clear about what is meant by “autism”. I take “autism” to mean a “severe and pervasive impairment”, as the group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are described in the DSM-IV.

But there are people who use “autism” to mean a wider category of behavioural and personality traits.

Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Living with Autism Spectrum Disorders

By convenor |

Prime Minister Gillard announced $31 million for a CRC for Living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (see http://www.pm.gov.au/press-office/70-million-boost-world-class-research). This is a welcome move from the Gillard Government.

"The implementation of a highly innovative 'whole-of-life' research portfolio will deliver a continuum of support required for people with Autism to participate successfully in education, employment and all facets of the community."

Australia: at last, a Co-operative Research Centre (CRC) for Autism

By convenor |

At last! The Australian Government decided to fund a Co-operative Research Centres (CRC) for Autism Spectrum Disorders.

"The CRC for Living with Autism Spectrum Disorders will receive $31 million to enhance the lives of individuals with lifelong development disabilities arising from an autism spectrum disorder." (see http://minister.innovation.gov.au/chrisbowen/MediaReleases/Pages/70mill…).

Human rights, legislation and a letter to yet another Attorney-General

By convenor |

Autism Aspergers Advocacy Australia (A4) sent yet another letter to Australia's latest Attorney-General. The letter raises concerns about proposed changes to disability discrimination law, and the lack of acknowledgement or response to concerns raised with previous Attorneys General.

Students with disabilities subjected to 'harmful' control measures at schools

By bobb |

by: BRUCE MCDOUGALL
From: The Daily Telegraph
December 24, 2012 12:00AM

SCHOOL teachers are training in martial arts to control disabled children who become violent under a raft of controversial behaviour management techniques slammed by disability groups as "abuse and neglect".

Children with disabilities are also being locked in small rooms or in "fenced areas" as punishment for bad behaviour at school while others are banned from classes unless they have taken "psychotropic medication", researchers claim.

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