Historical, Legal, and Unethical Practices of Autism
Jasmin O. Lawicki
Broward College
Historical, Legal, and Unethical Practices of Autism
For over 70 years, the definition of autism has continued to evolve and change. This is due in a large part to the growing awareness and continued research of the vast and varied spectrum disorder. With this awareness came the passing of several laws which serve to protect individuals with autism. However, despite these laws and protections, the unethical treatment of individuals with autism continues.
Historical Practices
Today, autism is a well-known disorder. In fact, the rate at which children are being diagnosed with autism has prompted many heated discussions and, perhaps conversely, served an integral role in increasing autism awareness; though, this was not always the case. Indeed, before the 1940s individuals with autism were thought to be suffering from an emotional disturbance, schizophrenia, or psychosis (Baker, 2013; Hanley & Quinn, 2003). However, with the work of psychiatrists like Leo Kanner, the definition of autism began to expand, be refined, and finally grow to encompass all that is now known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Although the word autism had been around much longer, in 1908 it was applied to the withdrawn nature of those suffering from schizophrenia …show more content…
In just over 70 years, autism has gone from being unknown and unrecognized to being a widely discussed and recognized disorder. However, unethical practices continue to be an all too often regular occurrence. While autism awareness is perhaps at its all-time peak, this is just one step in helping children with autism. To truly help children with autism educators must ensure that they are diligently adhering to standards of professional and ethical practices, becoming advocates of the rights and protection of their
Jasmin O. Lawicki
Broward College
Historical, Legal, and Unethical Practices of Autism
For over 70 years, the definition of autism has continued to evolve and change. This is due in a large part to the growing awareness and continued research of the vast and varied spectrum disorder. With this awareness came the passing of several laws which serve to protect individuals with autism. However, despite these laws and protections, the unethical treatment of individuals with autism continues.
Historical Practices
Today, autism is a well-known disorder. In fact, the rate at which children are being diagnosed with autism has prompted many heated discussions and, perhaps conversely, served an integral role in increasing autism awareness; though, this was not always the case. Indeed, before the 1940s individuals with autism were thought to be suffering from an emotional disturbance, schizophrenia, or psychosis (Baker, 2013; Hanley & Quinn, 2003). However, with the work of psychiatrists like Leo Kanner, the definition of autism began to expand, be refined, and finally grow to encompass all that is now known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Although the word autism had been around much longer, in 1908 it was applied to the withdrawn nature of those suffering from schizophrenia …show more content…
In just over 70 years, autism has gone from being unknown and unrecognized to being a widely discussed and recognized disorder. However, unethical practices continue to be an all too often regular occurrence. While autism awareness is perhaps at its all-time peak, this is just one step in helping children with autism. To truly help children with autism educators must ensure that they are diligently adhering to standards of professional and ethical practices, becoming advocates of the rights and protection of their