The Stolen Child: Aspects of Autism and Asperger Syndrome

by Ann Hewetson

Overview

Personal stories and professional research findings make this highly readable book a ready summary of the current knowledge surrounding autism. Recent coverage in popular media has increased awareness and understanding of this condition, creating the need for access to current scientific research and reports of common experiences with it. Directed toward parents and professionals, this book explains what research has revealed and supports it with personal accounts written by people with autism and the parents of autistic children. The focus of the book encompasses the wide spectrum of characteristics and ability levels that exist within autism and their implications for individuals as children, older adolescents, and adults.

From the first diagnosis of autism by Leo Kanner in 1943 to the most recent research by neurologists Isabelle Rapin and Robert Katzman, the study of autism has shed increasing light on the mysteries of this disorder. This book summarizes research findings as it explores the dilemmas faced by parents and individuals with autism in their search for early diagnosis, professional help, and suitable services. Chapters include discussions of co-existing conditions, causes of autism, and its relationship to Asperger Syndrome. Appendices include a glossary of related terms and an international directory of support organizations and publications.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780897898447
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	03/30/2002
Pages:	264
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.62(d)

About the Author

ANN HEWETSON is both a professional and a parent of a son with high-ability autism. In her professional capacity she has worked as a research scientist with the National University of Ireland and later as Head of Science in a large public school. She was instrumental in founding the Asperger Syndrome Association of Ireland.

Table of Contents

Some Insights
Beginnings
Mark R.
John K.
Brian O.B.
Some Professionals
The Early Diagnostic Years
Sensory Sensation
What Research Has Revealed: Education and Beyond
Recent Developments
Some Questions
Are Autism and Asperger Syndrome (AS) Different Labels or Different Disabilities?
What Causes Autism?
Is There a Cure for Autism?
Can Other Medical Conditions Coexist with Autism?
Some People
Autism from the Inside
Parent's Perspective
References
Index

What People are Saying About This

Edward M. Ornitz

"An encyclopedic work written with the heart of a parent and the scholarship of a most knowledgeable professional. It is both superbly researched and written to provide the information that parents, educators, and others caring for autistic children need. Both theories and treatments, right up-to-date, are reviewed in a style that provides the pros and cons without taking sides."

Susan Moreno

"A seasoned academic, Ann Hewetson has impeccably researched her subject materials. She possesses a thorough grasp of autism in all of its facets, both current and historical. As a parent, she presents the wrenching emotions and challenges faced by families who cope with autism."

Susan Moreno

"A seasoned academic, Ann Hewetson has impeccably researched her subject materials. She possesses a thorough grasp of autism in all of its facets, both current and historical. As a parent, she presents the wrenching emotions and challenges faced by families who cope with autism."

—

Susan Moreno, M.A.A.B.S., Parent, and President & Founder, Maap Services, Inc.

Anthony W. Clare

"A very interesting book indeed, full of information on a complex of disorders which hitherto have been poorly understood, full of wisdom and erudition, in an area which has been neglected until recently, and full of hope."

—

Anthony W. Clare, M.D., Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Clinical Director, St. Patrick's Hospital, Dublin

Anthony W. Clare

"A very interesting book indeed, full of information on a complex of disorders which hitherto have been poorly understood, full of wisdom and erudition, in an area which has been neglected until recently, and full of hope."

Edward M. Ornitz

"An encyclopedic work written with the heart of a parent and the scholarship of a most knowledgeable professional. It is both superbly researched and written to provide the information that parents, educators, and others caring for autistic children need. Both theories and treatments, right up-to-date, are reviewed in a style that provides the pros and cons without taking sides."

—

Edward M. Ornitz, M.D., Professor of Psychiatry and Child Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles School of Medicine

Editorial Reviews

Amidst the plethora of books on the subject in recent years, this one stands strong. Hewiston, the parent of a son with high-ability autism, was instrumental in founding the Asperger Syndrome Association of Ireland. The clarity and coherence of her presentation of theories, opinions, and avenues of research probably reflect her background as a research scientist; but her economical, yet evocative descriptions and explanations of the experiences and behaviors of autistic children come from another kind of gift. She writes for professionals in the many arenas where autistic children are present, as well as for parents who must strive for the deepest understanding in order to help their children. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Upper-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals.” —Choice

“A strong introductory text that includes personal narratives, historical information, summaries of different treatment programs, and excellent resources for people to move forward. A big plus: Hewetson, the mother of a son with high-ability autism, carefully balances the different approaches and does not promote one treatment over another as the cure for all people with ASD.” —Library Jourbanal

“Ann Hewetson is a very rare individual. A meticulous researcher, she has done her homework extensively in this fact-filled book….Seldom does one read a book crammed with information that is eminently READABLE.” —The Maap

“Amidst the plethora of books on the subject in recent years, this one stands strong. [Hewetson] writes for professionals in the many arenas where autistic children are present, as well as for parents who must strive for the deepest understanding in order to help their children.” —SciTech Book News

From the Publisher