About the Book
This volume provides research-based, practical information on managing the challenges that Asperger syndrome (AS) presents in everyday life and in the classroom. Current knowledge is reviewed on the core learning, behavioral, emotional, social, and communication difficulties associated with this complex disorder. Hurdles facing children with AS and their parents and teachers are clearly identified, and effective assessment and intervention approaches described. Special features include firsthand accounts from an adult with AS and a teacher with extensive experience in the area, as well as numerous illustrative vignettes and classroom examples. While written primarily for professionals, the volume will also be of interest to many parents. T.Attwood, MacGregor Centre, Queensland, Australia. Susan L. Calhoun, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA. V. Gill, Western Autistic School, Footscray
Table of Contents:
Introduction, Margot Prior
I. Assessment and Management of Behavioral and Learning Difficulties
1. Relationship between Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism, Susan Dickerson Mayes and Susan L. Calhoun
2. Cognitive and Academic Problems, Jo-Ann Reitzel and Peter Szatmari
3. Assessment of Specific Learning Difficulties, Janine Manjiviona
4. Effects of Language and Communicative Deficits on Learning and Behavior, Helen Tager-Flusberg
5. Understanding Social Difficulties, Michael Shaked and Nurit Yirmiya
6. Understanding and Managing Circumscribed Interests, Tony Attwood
7. Assessment and Treatment of Comorbid Emotional and Behavior Problems, Digby Tantam
II. Asperger Syndrome in the Schools
8. Remembering School, Wendy Lawson
9. Challenges Faced by Teachers Working with Students with Asperger Syndrome, Valerie Gill
10. School-Based Intervention for Children with Specific Learning Difficulties, Rita Jordan
11. The Ideal Classroom, Linda Kunce
12. Longer-Term Educational and Employment Outcomes, Patricia Howlin
13. What Do We Know and Where Should We Go?, Margot Prior
About the Author :
Margot Prior, PhD, FAPS, is Professor of Psychology at the University of Melbourne and a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia. She has been a lecturer, clinical psychologist, and researcher in the field of family and child development for more than 30 years at several Australian universities, as well as holding visiting appointments at the University of Padua (Italy), the University of London (UK), and the University of Otago (New Zealand). Until 2002, Dr. Prior was Professor/Director of Psychology at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne. She has written five books and many scientific papers on psychological disorders in childhood, and is a frequent speaker at national and international scientific meetings. Dr. Prior has specialized in research into behavioral and cognitive aspects of autism and Asperger syndrome (AS), and has produced a film to help parents and teachers understand AS.
Review :
"This volume provides most welcome, practical perspectives on diagnosing, assessing, and educating people with Asperger syndrome (AS). Detailed, informative, and highly readable, the book contains many fascinating and moving accounts of the problems faced in everyday life by people with AS, and describes ways of helping them to cope. It will be a valuable text for students of psychology, education, and social work, and should be required reading for child psychiatrists and pediatricians. Parents of children with AS, and individuals who have the disorder, may also find the book helpful and encouraging."--Lorna Wing, MD, Centre for Social and Communication Disorders, British National Autistic Society
"This book, written by an internationally recognized 'who's who' of autism spectrum disorder specialists, translates the most recent research in educational and behavioral programming into practical suggestions for therapy and guidance for educational interventions. It will be an invaluable resource for trainees in psychology, education, speech-language pathology, child psychiatry, and many other disciplines, as well as seasoned educators, therapists, and parents seeking the latest information. It will help all of us better meet the needs and capitalize on the talents of this special group of young people."--Sally Ozonoff, PhD, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis
"Children with Asperger syndrome have unique behavioral and educational problems arising from their paradoxical combination of strengths and difficulties. Readers of this book will learn not only about the nature and range of these difficulties, but also what to do about them. The editors and authors take a pragmatic stance: although much remains to be learned about Asperger syndrome, a lot of practical knowledge has been accumulated and is presented here in accessible form. Teachers, in particular, will find enlightening information about meeting the special needs of students with the disorder."--Uta Frith, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Department of Psychology, University College London, UK
"This timely volume offers a very helpful summary of diagnostic issues, management approaches for behavior and learning difficulties, and the provision of services in educational settings. Dr. Prior has assembled a diverse, international group of contributors who address the many needs of individuals with Asperger syndrome. This book will be of great value to teachers and clinicians alike."--Fred Volkmar, MD, Yale University School of Medicine
'The book contains many fascinating and moving accounts of the problems faced in everyday life by people with AS, and describes ways of helping them to cope. It will be a valuable text for students of psychology, education, and social work, and should be required reading for child psychiatrists and pediatricians. Parents of children with AS, and individuals who have the disorder, may also find the book helpful and encouraging.' -Lorna Wing, MD, Centre for Social and Communication Disorders, British National Autistic Society
