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In her new book, Wendy Lawson examines traditional theories about the autism spectrum (AS) and reveals their gaps and shortcomings. Showing that a completely different way of thinking about AS is needed, she sets forward the theory of Single Attention and Associated Cognition in Autism (SAACA), an approach that explains autism in terms of the unique learning style of AS individuals. The SAACA approach suggests that whereas neurotypical people can easily shift their attention from one task to another, those on the autism spectrum tend to use just one sense at a time, leading to a deep, intense attention. From the perspective of this new approach, Wendy describes practical outcomes for individuals, families, and places of education and employment, and shows that when the unique learning style of AS is understood, valued, and accommodated, AS individuals can be empowered to achieve their fullest potential. This is a fascinating read for anyone with a personal or professional interest in the autism spectrum, including clinical practitioners, educators, researchers, individuals on the spectrum and their families, teachers, occupational therapists, and other professionals.
People with Asperger's Syndrome have difficulty with interpersonal relationships, yet are well known to be loyal and dependable friends. Wendy Lawson felt she had a knack for upsetting people and was surprised to be told that she 'did friendship rather well'. In her frank and thoughtful analysis of what makes and breaks friendships, she explores what it means to have friends or be a friend - even a friend to oneself; what happens when times are tough and friends are scarce; whether one can be a 'good friend' without effort; and what other kinds of friendships there are, whether imaginary, animal or inanimate. These ideas are accompanied by practical examples, poetry and stories. Insightful and relevant to people both on and off the autism spectrum, Friendships: The Aspie Way is a fresh approach to a universal issue in human relationships.
To many of the people who live or work with an individual with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the processes by which those with autism make sense of the world around them may seem mysterious. In Understanding and Working with the Spectrum of Autism Wendy Lawson demonstrates these processes using comparisons from the non-ASD world to help professionals, families and carers to relate to and communicate with people with ASD better. Exercises at the back of the book encourage the reader to reflect on what has been discussed. The second part of the book contains chapters presenting a range of interventions and strategies for particular situations. Wendy illustrates her text with examples from...
For those with autism, understanding `normal' can be a difficult task. For those without autism, the perception of `normal' can lead to unrealistic expectations of self and others. This book explores how individuals and society understand `normal', in order to help demystify and make accessible a full range of human experience. Wendy Lawson outlines the theory behind the current thinking and beliefs of Western society that have led to the building of a culture that fails to be inclusive. She describes what a wider concept of `normal' means and how to access it, whether it's in social interaction, friendships, feelings, thoughts and desires or various other aspects of `normality'. Practical advice is offered on a range of situations, including how to find your role within the family, how to integrate `difference' into everyday society, and how to converse and connect with others. Accessible and relevant to people both on and off the autism spectrum, this book offers a fresh look at what it means to be `normal'.
Annotation "In this book, Wendy Lawson guides others on the autism spectrum through the confusing map of life, tackling the building bricks of social existence one by one with humour, insight and practical suggestions."
"Based on the Marvel comic book series The Avengers."
Written by an 'insider', an openly gay autistic adult, Wendy draws upon her own experience to examine the implications of being autistic on relationships, sex and sexuality. Discussing subjects such as basic sex education and autism, she then explores interpersonal relationships, same sex attraction, bisexuality and transgender issues.
Wendy Lawson has an autism spectrum disorder. Considered to be intellectually disabled and 'almost incapable of doing as she is told' at school, she was later misdiagnosed as schizophrenic - a label that stuck with her for more than 25 years. Her sense of self was then non-existent, but Wendy is now a mother of four with two university degrees; she is a social worker and adult educator, and operates her own business. She is also a poet and a writer, sharing her understanding of autism with others to help 'build a bridge from my world to theirs'. Life Behind Glass is part of that bridge.
This book explores the complexity of diagnosis for Asperger Syndrome, the drawbacks and benefits of disclosing a "hidden disability," and how this impinges on self-esteem. The contributors include some of the best-known and most exciting writers in the field of AS today, and include individuals on the autism spectrum, parents and professionals.
Looking at the positive influences, great talents and unique thought processes of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, this book is a celebration of those who have used their autism to shine in life. Writers from all over the world at different stages in their careers, and from very different backgrounds, share their experiences of creating a successful life on the autism spectrum. Each explains how it is possible to draw on autistic strengths not just to make your way in the world, overcoming challenges and obstacles, but also to make your life a real success. Education, the world of work, and relationships are the focus of the first part of the book, which then goes on to look at exceptional creativity, and the use of special interests. The autobiographical stories in this book are full of wisdom and humour, and will be an inspiration for anyone with high-functioning autism or Asperger Syndrome, their family and friends, and the professionals who work alongside them.