Understanding Autistic Girls
By Professor Tony Attwood and Dr Michelle Garnett Many autistic women deliberated about whether or not they should seek a formal diagnosis, weighing up the potential costs and benefits. Once…
Understanding Intimate Relationships on the Spectrum
By Dr Michelle Garnett Being in an intimate relationship with someone is one of the most intensely joyful and painful experiences we can have. The ecstasy of finding love, being…
What Exactly Is Camouflaging?
By Professor Tony Attwood & Dr Michelle Garnett Until recently, the gender ratio for autism was estimated as four boys for each girl. However, clinicians are increasingly receiving referrals for…
National youth autism charity Autism Camp Australia launches
One in 70 Australian are now diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and the prevalence of ASD is reportedly growing at a faster rate than any other disability. Autism has…
The Three Adaptations to Social Situations
By Professor Tony Attwood One of the central characteristics of autism in DSM 5 is a deficit in social communication and social interaction. The social and interpersonal aspects of life…
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders and Autism
A research article review by Dr Michelle Garnett Since their separation as independent conditions, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSD) can be misconceptualised as mutually exclusive disorders. …
How to Cope with ‘Meltdowns’
By Professor Tony Attwood Those who have an Autism are prone to have a catastrophic reaction or meltdown when overly stressed, anxious or frustrated. The meltdown may be externalised, with…
What “I’m Bored” Really Means for Autistic Kids
By Professor Tony Attwood The comment “I’m bored” is often said by teenagers at high school, but Autistic students may use this phrase to express a range of thoughts and…
Sexuality Education for Teenagers with Autism
Typical teenagers are usually very enthusiastic about lessons at school on sexuality, due to their own and their peers, developing sexual awareness. Any perceived deficits in formal sexuality education are…
Generalisation of Social Skills in the Real World
Social skills can be described as initiating and reciprocating interactions, understanding non-verbal communication and managing anxiety associated with social interactions. Social skill deficits that have not been addressed can have…