A Parent's Guide to Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism: How to Meet the Challenges and Help Your Child Thrive » (New Edition)

Sally Ozonoff, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the M.I.N.D. Institute, a national center for the study and treatment of autism spectrum disorders based at the University of California, Davis. She is widely known for her research, teaching, and clinical expertise in the areas of Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism. Previously, she was Associate Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry and co-Director of the Autism Specialty Clinic at the University of Utah.

Geraldine Dawson, PhD, is Professor of Psychology and Founding Director of the Autism Center at the University of Washington. An internationally recognized expert on autism, Dr. Dawson has published numerous articles and books in the areas of early diagnosis, brain function, and development.

James McPartland is a doctoral candidate in child clinical psychology at the University of Washington.

Asperger Syndrome and high-functioning autism are detected earlier and more accurately today than ever before. Children and teens with these disorders often stand out for their precocious intelligence and language abilities--yet profound social difficulties can limit every aspect of their lives. This hopeful, compassionate guide shows parents how to work with their child's unique impairments and capabilities to help him or her learn to engage more fully with the world and live as self-sufficiently as possible. From leading experts in the field, the book is packed with practical ideas for helping children relate more comfortably to peers,learn the rules of appropriate behavior, and participate more fully in school and family life. It also explains what scientists currently know about autistic spectrum disorders and how they are diagnosed and treated. Real-life success stories, problem-solving ideas, and matter-of-fact advice on everything from educational placements to career planning make this an indispensable reference that families will turn to again and again.

Doody Review Services

Reviewer:Nicholas Greco IV, MS, BCETS, CATSM(Abbott Laboratories)
Description:This book provides a much needed, highly empathic, and easy-to-read guide for parents whose child may have Asperger's syndrome or high-functioning autism.
Purpose:The purpose is to provide parents with a comprehensive, straightforward, and informative guide to Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism. Considering the amount of confusion in diagnosis as well as the number of impractical, jargon-laden books available, the objective of this book is a worthy one met by the authors.
Audience:Intended mainly as a guide for parents, clinicians, and researchers across mental disciplines will find this book extremely valuable as they will be easily able to implement the thoughtful knowledge and ideas contained here and recommend this book to their patients' families. The authors are credible authorities in the field.
Features:The book contains a tremendous amount of information, beginning with an overall history and description of Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism. The subsequent chapters walk parents through what occurs during the diagnostic process, thus allaying any fears or concerns. The causes and various treatments are discussed, but more important are the chapters on living with Asperger's and high-functioning autism. These chapters are an integral part of the book and certainly the information answers many parents' questions and concerns. A highlight is the resources section in the appendix that lists numerous books, newsletters, videotapes, medical centers, etc., for further reference.
Assessment:This is an excellently written and definitely needed addition to the field of child and adolescent mental health. Parents and clinicians alike will be hard-pressed to find a finer guide and resource on Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism.