Description
During the teenage years, friendships for typical adolescents are often based on shared interests such as academic achievements, mutual participation in sports and the arts. Friendship becomes the primary focus for their time, interest and energy, and a major source of self-identity and self-esteem. By contrast, the autistic teenager typically has fewer friends, meeting with friends less often at school and for a shorter duration. Autistic adolescents often sense their difference to their peers and feel that others do not want to be around them. Autistic adolescents often blame themselves for their peer rejection and become anxious to avoid socialising. A lack of genuine social acceptance by peers will obviously adversely affect the development of self-esteem, self-identity, and perception of autism.
We created this presentation for parents and professionals to explain the friendship challenges and provide ideas and strategies for increasing friendship success for autistic adolescents at high school.
See trailer below for more information on content:
About the speakers
Prof Tony Attwood PhD With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Professor Tony Attwood is one of the world’s foremost specialists on Autism. Holding an Honour’s degree in Psychology from the University of Hull, a Master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Surrey, and a PhD from the University of London, his credentials are a testament to his expertise. Currently serving as an adjunct Professor at Griffith University in Queensland, Professor Attwood’s impact has enriched the global understanding of autism.
Alongside Dr Michelle Garnett, Professor Attwood co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019, driven by the shared goal of enhancing autism awareness and understanding. Their shared vision seeks to reshape the narrative surrounding autism to create a world where autism is embraced, and the diverse strengths, talents, and perspectives of autistic individuals are celebrated. This transformative narrative fosters a more inclusive and accepting society, benefitting all its members.
Renowned for his extensive contributions to understanding Asperger’s Syndrome, now commonly referred to as autism, Professor Attwood has authored numerous publications on the subject. His seminal book, Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals debuted in 1998, resonated globally and has since found its voice in over 25 languages, making his insights accessible across cultures and continents.
With a dedicated commitment to practical application, he has run a private practice for 30 years, only recently closing his books due to a long waiting list. Beyond his clinical work, he dedicates significant time to travel, sharing insights and knowledge through workshops and seminars across national and international platforms.
Dr Michelle Garnett PhD is a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of specialising in autism. In 2005, she founded Minds & Hearts, a clinic specialised to autism, where she served as Clinical and Managing Director for 14 years until 2019. Alongside Tony Attwood she co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019, aiming to enhance autism awareness and understanding with a vision to foster a neuro-affirming community.
In addition to her extensive private practice, Dr Garnett has significantly contributed to autism research, authored influential books, and engaged in impactful speaking engagements. Her peer-reviewed research has informed our understanding of early autism identification, the female autism profile, and the link between mental health and positive outcomes in autistic individuals. She has co-authored six respected books on autism, including the influential Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism (2018) with Barb Cook, a seminal work on the female autism experience. Her recent books, Having Fun with Feelings on the Autism Spectrum and Ten Steps to Reducing Your Child’s Anxiety on the Autism Spectrum offer invaluable guidance to parents of young autistic children.
Dr Garnett is a sought-after presence in academic circles, presenting as a Keynote Speaker at conferences and conducting workshops, seminars, and training sessions on autism across Australia, the UK, and Europe. Her influence extends to universities, autism organisations, government, and non-governmental bodies, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the autism field. Dr Garnett is autistic and has ADHD, late diagnosed.
Learning Objectives
To be aware of the latest research on the friendship abilities of autistic adolescent boys and girls and the theoretical models that explain the friendship challenges.
To know how to assess an autistic adolescent’s friendship abilities and difficulties.
To acquire strategies to reinforce existing friendship skills, develop the friendship abilities anticipated by peers and have greater confidence in social situations.
What will I be able to do as a result of taking this course?
Understand why autistic adolescents have difficulties making and maintaining friendships and to learn ideas and strategies to facilitate friendship inclusion and success.
What You Will Receive
- The Online Course runs for 3 hours
- Downloadable Handouts to complement the course
- Certificate of Completion (upon request)
- You may count 3 hours toward your CPD hours
- Access to the content for 60 days from the date of purchase (accessed via the Member Dashboard). A once-off 30-day extension is available*. See our FAQs for further information.
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