The Autistic Brain

Synopsis

Want to read just one book about autism? Read this. Written by Temple Grandin, one of the world's most accomplished and well-known adults with autism, this thought-provoking, insightful and inspirational book - with illustrative diagrams and key points pulled out for emphasis - will assist not only fellow autistics and families with affected members, but also researchers and physicians seeking to better understand the condition.

'An extraordinary source of inspiration for autistic children, their parents - and all people' -- Time
'The Autistic Brain can both enlighten readers with little exposure to autism and offer hope and compassion to those who live with the condition' -- Scientific American
'Grandin has helped us understand autism not just as a phenomenon, but as a different but coherent mode of existence that otherwise confounds us...' -- New York Times
'Enjoyable, insightful read' -- ***** Reader review
'This book is a delight from start to finish' -- ***** Reader review
'Superb, readable book' -- ***** Reader review
'Great book. Very insightful and easy to follow' -- ***** Reader review

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It's estimated that one in almost a hundred people are diagnosed as being on the autistic spectrum but there is far more hope for them today than ever before thanks to ground-breaking new research.

In this fascinating and highly readable book, Temple Grandin offers her own experience as an autistic person alongside remarkable new discoveries about the autistic brain, as well as genetic research.
She highlights long-ignored sensory problems as well as the need to treat autism symptom by symptom, rather than with an umbrella diagnosis. Most exciting of all, she argues that raising and educating children on the autistic spectrum needs to be less about focusing on their weaknesses, and more about fostering their unique contributions.

Written in a clear, concise and accessible way, with illustrative diagrams and key points pulled out for emphasis, this is an all-encompassing guide that will change the perception of autism.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Hidden Realm

* Explores the unique neurobiology of autistic brains, including their heightened sensory processing, different patterns of brain connectivity, and atypical neural pruning.
* Example: A person with autism may experience overwhelming sensory input from fluorescent lights or loud noises, which can lead to stress or discomfort.

Chapter 2: The Social Disconnect

* Examines the challenges that autistic individuals face in social situations, such as difficulty with eye contact, understanding non-verbal cues, and navigating social interactions.
* Example: A child with autism may have trouble recognizing facial expressions or understanding the intentions of others, making it difficult for them to engage in social play.

Chapter 3: The Language Puzzle

* Describes the different ways in which autistic brains can process language, including difficulties with comprehension, pragmatics (using language in social contexts), and prosody (speech intonation).
* Example: A person with autism may have difficulty understanding the meaning of idioms or being able to adjust their tone of voice to different social situations.

Chapter 4: The Spectrum of Expression

* Explores the wide range of abilities and presentations within the autism spectrum, from individuals with severe nonverbal impairments to those who may be high-functioning or even undetected.
* Example: Some autistic individuals may require constant support, while others may be able to live independently and work successfully.

Chapter 5: The Genetics of Autism

* Discusses the complex genetic factors that contribute to autism, including mutations in various genes and chromosomal abnormalities.
* Example: Recent research has identified mutations in the CHD8 gene as a risk factor for autism, particularly in cases that involve motor difficulties.

Chapter 6: The Neurodiversity Movement

* Examines the growing movement that advocates for embracing and celebrating the unique cognitive and perceptual strengths of autistic individuals.
* Example: The concept of "neurodiversity" suggests that autism is a natural variation in human development, rather than a disorder to be cured.

Chapter 7: The Future of Autism Research

* Highlights current and future research directions in the field of autism, including the use of neuroimaging, genetic analysis, and behavioral interventions.
* Example: Researchers are developing personalized treatments based on the specific characteristics of each autistic individual, using approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and social skills training.

Chapter 8: The Autism Journey

* Provides practical guidance and support for individuals with autism and their families, including tips on managing sensory overload, developing social skills, and navigating educational and social challenges.
* Example: Parents of a child with autism may implement sensory strategies such as weighted blankets or noise-canceling headphones to help reduce their child's anxiety and improve their daily functioning.