Development of Autism

Thomas L. Whitman is a Professor of Psychology at The University of Notre Dame, USA and Co-director of the Graduate Research Training Program in Mental Retardation. He is the author of over 90 empirical articles, chapters and books. His research and teaching has focused on children at risk for developmental problems, with a special interest in studying children who demonstrate significant resiliency in the face of risk.His most recent books include Interwoven lives: Adolescent mothers and their children (2001) and Lifespan perspectives on health and illness (1999). For the past 10 years he has worked with families, helping them establish educational programs for children with autism spectrum disorders.

• Preface. 1. History, Definition and Assessment. 2. Autism and its Characteristics. 3. Theories of Autism, with Kathleen J. Kolberg. 4. Toward a Developmental Theory of Autism. 5. Educational and Biomedical Interventions, with Kathleen J. Kolberg. 6. Family Stress and Coping, with Julie Lounds. 7. Recommendations to Parents, Therapists/Educators, Researchers and Social Policy Makers. References. Index.

Whitman's text is perhaps the first comprehensive book aimed partly at social policymakers as members of the interdisciplinary team... the book is easy to read yet respectful; it does not speak over the layperson, nor does it talk down to him or her. The organization of the chapters serves well for an easy read or a quick reference. The recommendations are feasible and strategic. Furthermore, Whitman does not recommend specific interventions because he has established already that individuals need individual assessment and treatment. As a researcher on ASD, an educator, an aunt of five persons, and a music therapist who depends on policymakers to mandate suitable guidelines based on theory, science, and practical findings in order to fund research, provide for children in need, and support promising interventions, I highly recommend this book to all of the intended audiences.