Damage of Labels and the Importance of Autism in Society

 It has become apparent, as stated in an article by Ms.Temple Grandin, that autism is not the best when used as a label. Nor is Asperger's. Throughout the article, she cites examples of families bringing their children to conferences focused on autism. She points out one specific instance where a mother had brought her child to the conference. Upon conversation, Ms. Grandin decides to inform her that, in the past, instead of Asperger's or mild autism, she would be described as, "intellectually gifted."

Through extensive study on the woman Temple Grandin, it has become clear that she is one of few those who is verbal while still being autistic. She gives great insight into the autistic brain, comparing a computer to the human brain and how autistic people's do not always connect giving them cognitive disabilities and causing them to be unable to speak or perform certain daily tasks. She also explains how to teach a child to perform certain daily tasks. She also mentions that diet can impact a child greatly. Overall, she ascertains that though Autism can be tough to deal with at times, both for the individual and surrounding family and friends.'

Her story is rather unique. She grew up with a good family and an especially loving mother. She did not speak and refused to learn, though she had a great intellect at an especially young age. The doctor her mother went told her that she should institutionalize her. Her mother refused and at age four, her mother began in search of answers. What they found worked was to have a sort of therapist visit their home and play games with her so that she would learn the principle of taking turns. Her mother was also stern and determined that she learned old-fashioned manners, which she did. As years passed, her mother, at the urging of one of the teachers at the school, enrolled her in a boarding school. It was a nice high school, almost perfect for the child with horses to ride and other small amusements. The same teacher that urged her to attend also challenged her intellect. By asking her to solve complex problems he brought her motivation and drive. Eventually, she attended college and got her Ph. d.

http://eds.b.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.uvu.edu/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=2&sid=3cab90f1-456c-4b6f-bdb3-2e3baf5ef9f7%40sessionmgr120