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…

Why Some Autistic Children Refuse School

By Professor Tony Attwood There are many aspects of being at school that are challenging and stressful for children and adolescents who have autism. This can lead to school refusal,…

Social camouflaging in girls on the autism spectrum: A peer-reviewed study by Lizaan Schwartz, Provisional Psychologist

As a professional I have observed the increased levels of anxiety and emotion dysregulation young females with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience when camouflaging their social difficulties. This is…

Sex Education and Adolescents with Autism by Dr Wesley Turner Psychologist

The onset of puberty is often a stressful time for adolescents and parents alike, and is typically of particular concern to parents of adolescents with Autism. While the ups and…