Autistic Spectrum Disorders: An Introductory Handbook for Practitioners [Paperback]

Written for practitioners working in the field of autism and related disorders, including Asperger's syndrome, this handbook offers an overview of understandings of these disorders from a behavioral, biological and psychological perspective. A coherent analysis of the different theoretical viewpoints is provided, especially at the psychological level which has the greatest bearing on practice. This makes the book relevant to those interested in developmental psychology as well as to those who seek a greater understanding of autism.Acknowledgements -- Preface -- Introduction -- 1 The Nature and Definition of Autism -- 2 The Importance of Diagnosis in Education and Care -- 3 Autism and Behaviour -- 4 The Biological Bases of Autism -- 5 Psychological Theories on the Nature of Autism -- 6 The Individual with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder -- Appendices -- References -- Index.Rita Jordan is Senior Lecturer in Autism at the University of Birmingham. Rita Jordan has produced a valuable book which, whilst ostensibly aimed at practitioners whose job involves working with children and adults who have autism, is written in a style clear enough and deep enough to be indispensable to parents or carers. ...a worthy addition to the growing canon of work striving to explore and understand this challenging developmental disparity. -- British Journal of Special EducationUSCopyright ? Rita Jordan 1999