Madam, – Can I take this opportunity to address the scaremongering content of an article about autism (HEALTHplus, July 27th)? The author’s main concern is the Government not offering parents a choice of ABA (Applied Behavioural Analysis) or alternative behavioural strategies for children with autism from an early age.
This is a valid point and one where money is the reason for Government inaction. But talking of a so-called epidemic of autism is downright scaremongering and shows a level of ignorance in dealing with these educational issues.
I work in the the area of neurodevelopment services in the UK and I can assure you, from the literature I have read, there is no epidemic of autism in Ireland, the UK or further afield.
In fact if anything, the emergence of more cases of autism arises from a better understanding of children’s social and communication development and needs. We used to see autism as a schizoid personality .
The Irish Timesshowed recklessness in allowing the author to use the word epidemic. The author is completely right, the Government is neglecting these children's rights to an education that suits their needs. The author is wrong to say that the provision of these educational needs and support would address a so-called public health problem. – Yours, etc,