Читать книгу Different . . . Not Less - Temple Grandin - Страница 6

FOREWORD

This is an inspiring book. The stories of achievement will be encouraging for parents of a young child with an autism spectrum disorder and will be especially inspirational for adolescents and young adults who are feeling despondent that autism could deprive them of a successful career or relationship. This book has antidepressant qualities to rival those of medication.

The stories serve to illustrate a cross-section of abilities, experiences, and adversity for mature adults with an autism spectrum disorder. There are clear themes in terms of adversity, such as being bullied at school and having self-esteem challenged by the ignorance and prejudice of peers and coworkers. There are descriptions of the difficulties caused by sensory sensitivity, social naivety, and vulnerability. Some stories explore the time it may take to eventually find a career that constructively uses the qualities and abilities attributable to autism. Where there is a successful outcome, common themes include the discovery of a mentor within the person’s family, circle of friends, and colleagues who is able to provide guidance and encouragement, as well as the individual’s personal qualities of determination and perseverance.

Other keys to a successful outcome are employment during adolescence in the form of a part-time job and recognition that there is no career that should be avoided by someone with an autism spectrum disorder. The careers described by the contributors include employment in information technology and business, the arts, the caring professions (including becoming a psychologist), and the animal sciences. The contributors provide an international perspective, as well as illustrations of outcomes for both men and women with an autism spectrum disorder who have a range of intellectual ability, from average to superior.

The stories also include “dark” times, including depression, relationship breakdowns, and even a term of imprisonment. However, these have been catalysts for positive change, and the eventual outcomes have been perfect illustrations of being Different…Not Less.

Dr Tony Attwood