Latest news with #AutismSpectrumDisorder
SBS Australia
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- SBS Australia
Ep.374: 'Be curious': New campaign aims to improve autism understanding
DOWNLOAD the script in Italian and English side by side. English Michael Theo doesn't like to be put in one box. The Sydney-based actor always knew he wanted to pursue a career in the performing arts. And he doesn't want to be limited to one domain. "I have always known that I have always wanted to be an actor since I was a very little kid, since I was under five years of age, because I enjoy making people laugh. And I enjoy the craft itself. Because in my eyes, the performing arts is a sacred form of arts and should be regarded as such. And also, acting is part of who I am." That dream was made more challenging with a diagnosis at the age of eight of what is now known as Autism Spectrum Disorder, but which before a 2013 reclassification included Asperger's syndrome. Autism Spectrum Disorder refers to a range of conditions impacting the way the brain learns; and also how it processes sensory information – such as light and noise. The lifelong condition affects each individual differently - affecting their ability to interact with people and the world in varying degrees. This can have profound consequences on employment and education outcomes. For Michael, he made a decision early on define life on his own terms. "I also decided a long time ago that I would no longer take no for an answer when it comes to my goals. Because I found myself taking no for an answer from others. But no one was hardly taking no for an answer for me. So I thought to myself: 'why should I do that for them?'" In 2019, at the age of 25, he achieved his first major on screen role, on the Australian documentary series 'Love on The Spectrum', which follows young adults on the autism spectrum as they navigate the world of dating and relationships. He says the encouragement to pursue his passions has been very rewarding. "[I wanted to show people] what living with it can be like and how difficult it can be to find love on the spectrum (are autistic). Because people on the spectrum have to work twice as hard to achieve their goals; what they want in life. Because there are some people in this world that aren't willing to give them that chance." He didn't find a lasting love interest on the show, but it led him to the relationship he is now - with his partner, Jessica. It has also led to other projects, including entering the world of podcasting and the latest project: a children's book. He says being given that uplift from those around him has allowed him to showcase what he can offer and contribute - and it has made all the difference. He says the task of achieving one's full potential can be understood through the analogy of a seed. "How is a peach pit ever supposed to become a tree if you never give it a chance to grow? And the only way that they can grow is to be given the chance to fulfill their potential, unlock their potential, fulfill their goals and become whatever they wish to be." It is also why he supports the latest campaign commissioned by autism service provider Aspect to encourage Australians from all walks of life to improve their understanding of how they can make a positive impact in the lives of autistic people. The survey of more than 1,000 people was conducted by YouGov in February 2025, finding that 45 per cent of those surveyed admitted to having a limited understanding of autism. A third of respondents said they did not know what to say if someone disclosed they are autistic. The CEO of Aspect, Jacqui Borland, says the research is revealing on the progress made in the 17 years since the United Nations declared an international day to improve awareness and understanding of autism. "So, look, I don't think there is ongoing research. Aspect commissioned this piece of research just to find out where we're at. So we have had autism awareness campaigns for a number of years. So we do know that with 1 in 40 people diagnosed on the autism spectrum, a lot of Australians do now have a personal connection with autism. So we know that awareness is growing stronger. But the next stage to awareness is understanding. This piece of research was really trying to get past awareness - to just how well people think they understand autism." Held annually on April 2, the global day World Autism Awareness Day promotes the full realisation of human rights and fundamental freedoms for autistic individuals, ensuring their equal participation in society. Ms Borland says the true potential of autistic Australians has yet to be realised, particularly when it comes to employment. "Autistic people are unemployed or underemployed to a far greater degree than the general population and even to a greater degree to people with other types of disability. So what that tells us is there is this large group of people who do have skills and who do want to work. If we can just understand, make those adjustments to our workplaces, perhaps to our hiring practices in the first place, then there is a potential to really - for the betterment of our community - include autistic people in the workforce." She says adjustments that can be made in the workplace can be simple and benefit the whole workforce. Things like written instructions ahead of time, setting up a quiet room for meditation, or the provision of noise-cancelling headphones to reduce the sound level in offices. "[What would help them is:] just being flexible in terms of how you might communicate, the sort of environment you might expect an autistic person to be in, how busy that environment is, how noisy that environment is, but very much being led by the autistic person and what they tell you supports them. Because first and foremost, we know that every autistic person is different. The best thing we can do is to ask them individually how we can support them." For mother-of-two, Ainslie Robinson receiving a diagnosis for autism as an adult was a turning point. "So I was raised in the '80s; and not much was known about autism back then. So there was the searching for answers back then. But there just wasn't the information to be had. So my diagnosis did come after my son's. I self-identified with my son, which, when I was 33, was just 3 years-old and I then sought official diagnosis shortly thereafter. It gave me permission to be kinder to myself because before that period of my life I thought that the way I interacted with people - and the way that I did everything - was essentially wrong. And that takes a toll on a person and their mental health - a significant one. Once I had the diagnosis, it allowed me to be a lot more compassionate with myself." A researcher and working-in-partnership officer at Aspect, she now spends a lot of time bridging the gap to overcome misunderstandings that impact attitudes towards those with autism. She says the best approach is to be curious - and get to know people as humans. "I think that is the greatest way to open that conversation in a really neutral way. And over time learning how interactions might be different with that person. Just seek clarity, instead of getting upset with the person. I would just like to see when I'm out and about and I happen to mention that I - or one of us - in our ragtag band of misfits is autistic. That random people that I encounter can say: oh, I know this about autism. Or demonstrate a level of understanding and empathy. I think that would be pretty cool." Michael Theo says he echoes that - and says small actions can have a big impact. "In terms of responding to someone who discloses that they're autistic, one of the best things that you can ask them is: 'Is there anything I can do to accommodate you?'. In my case, I would say something like: 'Generally, you don't need to do much. I don't want or need special treatment. Sometimes when noise gets to be too much, I just need a quiet space, so I can recharge. Our energy levels are like batteries and they always need recharging. Everyone has a way to recharge. If noise becomes too much for me, I would just need a quiet space'." A Michael Theo non piace essere inquadrato in una sola casella. L'attore nativo di Sydney ha sempre saputo di voler intraprendere una carriera nello spettacolo. E non vuole essere limitato a un solo ambito. "I have always known that I have always wanted to be an actor since I was a very little kid, since I was under five years of age, because I enjoy making people laugh. And I enjoy the craft itself. Because in my eyes, the performing arts is a sacred form of arts and should be regarded as such. And also, acting is part of who I am." Quel sogno è stato reso più difficile da una diagnosi all'età di otto anni di quello che oggi è noto come Disturbo dello Spettro Autistico, ma che prima di una riclassificazione del 2013 includeva la Sindrome di Asperger. Il Disturbo dello spettro autistico si riferisce a una serie di condizioni che hanno un impatto sul modo in cui il cervello apprende e sul modo in cui elabora le informazioni sensoriali, come la luce e il rumore. Questa condizione, che dura tutta la vita, colpisce ogni individuo in modo diverso e influisce in misura variabilesulla sua capacità di interagire con le persone e con il mondo. Questo può avere profonde conseguenze sui risultati lavorativi e scolastici. Michael ha preso la decisione di adattare la sua vita alle sue condizioni molto presto. "I also decided a long time ago that I would no longer take no for an answer when it comes to my goals. Because I found myself taking no for an answer from others. But no one was hardly taking no for an answer for me. So I thought to myself: 'why should I do that for them?'" Nel 2019, all'età di 25 anni, ha ottenuto il suo primo ruolo importante sullo schermo, nella serie di documentari australiana 'Love on The Spectrum', che segue i giovani adulti dello spettro autistico mentre affrontano il mondo degli appuntamenti e delle relazioni. Per lui l'incoraggiamento a perseguire le sue passioni è stato molto importante. "[I wanted to show people] what living with it can be like and how difficult it can be to find love on the spectrum (are autistic), because people on the spectrum have to work twice as hard to achieve their goals; what they want in life. Because there are some people in this world that aren't willing to give them that chance. Lo show non gli ha permesso di trovare un amore duraturo, ma lo ha portato alla relazione con la sua attuale compagna, Jessica. Lo ha portato anche ad altri progetti, tra cui l'ingresso nel mondo del podcasting e l'ultima sua opera: un libro per bambini. Secondo Micheal, ricevere sostegno da parte di coloro che lo circondano gli ha permesso di mostrare ciò che può offrire e contribuire, e questo ha fatto la differenza. Secondo lui, il compito di raggiungere il proprio potenziale può essere compreso attraverso l'analogia di un seme. "How is a peach pit ever supposed to become a tree if you never give it a chance to grow? And the only way that they can grow is to be given the chance to fulfill their potential, unlock their potential, fulfill their goals and become whatever they wish to be." È anche per questo che sostiene l'ultima campagna commissionata dal fornitore di servizi per l'autismo Aspect per incoraggiare gli australiani di ogni estrazione sociale a migliorare la loro comprensione di come possono avere un impatto positivo sulla vita delle persone autistiche. Il sondaggio condotto da YouGov nel febbraio 2025 su oltre 1.000 persone ha rilevato che il 45% degli intervistati ha ammesso di avere una comprensione limitata dell'autismo. Un terzo degli intervistati ha dichiarato di non sapere cosa dire se qualcuno rivela di essere autistico. L'amministratrice delegata di Aspect , Jacqui Borland, afferma che la ricerca rivela i progressi compiuti nei 17 anni da quando le Nazioni Unite hanno dichiarato una giornata internazionale per migliorare la consapevolezza e la comprensione dell'autismo. "So, look, I don't think there is ongoing research. Aspect commissioned this piece of research just to find out where we're at. So we have had autism awareness campaigns for a number of years. So we do know that with 1 in 40 people diagnosed on the autism spectrum, a lot of Australians do now have a personal connection with autism. So we know that awareness is growing stronger. But the next stage to awareness is understanding. This piece of research was really trying to get past awareness - to just how well people think they understand autism." La Giornata mondiale della consapevolezza dell'autismo, che si tiene ogni anno il 2 aprile, promuove la piena realizzazione dei diritti umani e delle libertà fondamentali per le persone autistiche, assicurando loro una partecipazione paritaria alla società. Per Borland il vero potenziale degli australiani autistici non è ancora stato realizzato, in particolare per quanto riguarda l'occupazione. "Autistic people are unemployed or underemployed to a far greater degree than the general population and even to a greater degree to people with other types of disability. So what that tells us is there is this large group of people who do have skills and who do want to work. If we can just understand, make those adjustments to our workplaces, perhaps to our hiring practices in the first place, then there is a potential to really - for the betterment of our community - include autistic people in the workforce." Secondo l'autrice, le modifiche che possono essere apportate sul posto di lavoro possono essere semplici e giovare all'intera forza lavoro. Per esempio, istruzioni scritte in anticipo, la creazione di una stanza tranquilla per la meditazione o la fornitura di cuffie a cancellazione di rumore per ridurre il livello sonoro negli uffici. "[What would help them is:] just being flexible in terms of how you might communicate, the sort of environment you might expect an autistic person to be in, how busy that environment is, how noisy that environment is, but very much being led by the autistic person and what they tell you supports them. Because first and foremost, we know that every autistic person is different. The best thing we can do is to ask them individually how we can support them." Per Ainslie Robinson, madre di due bambini, ricevere una diagnosi di autismo da adulta è stato un punto di svolta. "So I was raised in the '80s; and not much was known about autism back then. So there was the searching for answers back then. But there just wasn't the information to be had. So my diagnosis did come after my son's. I self-identified with my son, which, when I was 33, was just 3 years-old and I then sought official diagnosis shortly thereafter. It gave me permission to be kinder to myself because before that period of my life I thought that the way I interacted with people - and the way that I did everything - was essentially wrong. And that takes a toll on a person and their mental health - a significant one. Once I had the diagnosis, it allowed me to be a lot more compassionate with myself." Ricercatrice e funzionaria di Aspect , dedica molto tempo a colmare il divario per superare le incomprensioni che influenzano l'atteggiamento [di molte persone] verso le persone affette da autismo. Secondo lei, l'approccio migliore è essere curiosi e accettare le persone come esseri umani. "I think that is the greatest way to open that conversation in a really neutral way, and over time learning how interactions might be different with that person [is to] just seek clarity, instead of getting upset with the person. I would just like to see when I'm out and about and I happen to mention that I - or one of us - in our ragtag band of misfits is autistic. That random people that I encounter can say: 'oh, I know this about autism'. Or demonstrate a level of understanding and empathy. I think that would be pretty cool." Michael Theo concorda sul fatto che piccole azioni possono avere un grande impatto. "In terms of responding to someone who discloses that they're autistic, one of the best things that you can ask them is: 'Is there anything I can do to accommodate you?'. In my case, I would say something like: 'Generally, you don't need to do much. I don't want or need special treatment. Sometimes when noise gets to be too much, I just need a quiet space, so I can recharge. Our energy levels are like batteries and they always need recharging. Everyone has a way to recharge. If noise becomes too much for me, I would just need a quiet space'." Report by SBS News Ascolta SBS Italian tutti i giorni, dalle 8am alle 10am. Seguici su Facebook e Instagram o abbonati ai nostri podcast cliccando qui . Report by SBS News Listen to SBS Italian every day from 8 am to 10 am. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Floreo Launches Scientific Advisory Board to Advance Evidence-Based VR Therapy for Neurodivergent Learners
WASHINGTON, June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Floreo, a pioneering developer of virtual reality (VR)-based therapy for neurodivergent youth and adults, is proud to announce its inaugural scientific advisory board. Comprising six leaders across behavioral health research, clinical practice, and healthcare delivery, the board is chaired by Dr. Paula Pompa-Craven, chief clinical officer of Easterseals Southern California--the largest provider of disability services in California. "There is a real urgency and demand for accessible, effective, and evidence-based interventions that can serve individuals living with autism. We see a tremendous opportunity for collaboration across the scientific, clinical, and technology communities. Early evidence suggests tremendous promise for virtual reality as a vehicle for therapeutic support, and we're honored to collaborate with such distinguished experts to ensure our work is grounded in clinical rigor," said Vijay Ravindran, CEO and founder of Floreo. "Their research and insights will help guide the continued development of our technology to better serve the neurodiverse community." Utilized in both clinical and school settings, Floreo's immersive VR lessons support the development of social, behavioral, communication, emotional regulation, and life skills for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and other diagnoses. In 2023, Floreo became the first VR autism technology to receive the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) breakthrough device designation. The scientific advisory board will provide strategic direction on research initiatives, clinical study design, and the continued scientific validation of Floreo's VR-based learning tools. The board convened for its first meeting at the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) conference and will serve as a guiding pillar for Floreo's growing research portfolio. Founding members of the scientific advisory board include: Paula Pompa-Craven, Psy.D., Chief Clinical Officer of Easterseals Southern California Dr. Paula Pompa-Craven, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment and diagnosis of autism and other developmental disabilities. She has been with Easterseals Southern California (ESSC) since 1995 and supported several different service lines before becoming Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer of ESSC's Autism Therapy Services. Paula supervises a staff of over 1,400, which provides applied behavior analysis, speech, physical, and occupational therapy services to over 19,000 individuals with autism and their families annually. Retired U.S. Army Major General Elder Granger, M.D. Retired U.S. Army Major General Elder Granger, M.D. is currently the president and CEO of THE 5Ps, LLC, a health care, education, and leadership consulting organization. Before he retired from the U.S. Army in 2009, MG Granger served as the Deputy Director and Program Executive Officer of the TRICARE Management Activity, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs), Washington, D.C. In this role, he was the principal advisor to the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs) on Department of Defense health plan policy and performance and led a staff of 1,800 in ensuring high-quality, accessible healthcare for 9.2 million uniformed and retired service members, their families, and others worldwide. MG Granger led the largest U.S. and multi-national battlefield health system in our recent history while serving as Commander Task Force 44th Medical Command and Command Surgeon for the Multinational Corps Iraq. He is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and the Board of Hematology and Oncology. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Arkansas State University in 1976 and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine in 1980. MG Granger also received an honorary Doctor of Science Degree from Meharry Medical College. Dr. Rhonda Moore, PhD, Autistic Cultural and Medical Anthropologist Dr. Rhonda Moore is an Autistic cultural and medical anthropologist, and a program director for the All of Us Research Program at the NIH. Most of her work has focused on lived experiences of pain and physical and invisible disability across the lifespan (healthy populations, cancer patients, and survivors, and in diverse palliative care contexts). Prior to All of Us, she served as a Program Director in Global Mental Health at NIMH and program lead for the digital global mental health technology program. She also served as a Scientific Review Officer at the NCI. She also spent over eight years as a social scientist and reviewer at the US FDA working across diverse regulatory products (drugs, tobacco, devices). She shares her lived experiences as a late identified Autistic adult through podcasts, poetry and talks. Anna Moznavsky, M.A., BCBA, SVP of Clinical Operations and Quality, Center for Social Dynamics Anna Moznavsky serves as the Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations and Quality at the Center for Social Dynamics (CSD), where she leads the organization's clinical quality initiatives and oversees clinical growth and retention. Anna established CSD's Board of Clinical Quality and spearheaded the creation of the organization's internal research department and its own Institutional Review Board (IRB). She also founded CSD University, a comprehensive training and development platform designed to elevate clinician new hire training and promotion pathway training. With over two decades of experience working with autistic individuals, Anna began her journey as a volunteer and has been a BCBA since 2012. Additionally, she served a three-year term on the Catalight Care Advisory Board. Her work reflects a deep commitment to improving client outcomes, advancing clinical excellence, and mentoring the next generation of behavioral health professionals Marsha Stepensky, BCBA, Director of Therapy Content, Floreo Marsha Stepensky is a seasoned clinician and educator with over 18 years of experience across educational, clinical, and community settings. She currently serves as the Director of Therapy Content at Floreo, where she leads the design and implementation of VR therapy lessons rooted in evidence-based practices. Previously, Marsha spearheaded the development and launch of a multidisciplinary Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) clinic for individuals aged 3–21 at a pediatric hospital in Washington, D.C. In that role, she created and led hospital-wide training programs on behavior management policies and crisis intervention, while also shaping onboarding and supervision protocols for behavioral health staff. Marsha has a special interest in sexuality and sexuality education and has worked internationally to train parents and professionals on effective strategies for teaching this topic to young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). She is passionate about ensuring access, equity, and dignity in all areas of support. Shirley Mak-Parisi, Vice President of Clinical Affairs, Floreo Shirley Mak-Parisi is a clinical research professional with over 20 years of experience. Prior to joining Floreo, Shirley led clinical operations for medical device companies and behavioral health tech startups. She has a keen eye for data and a passion for evidence-based programs while navigating the complex intersection of science, regulation, and patient safety. Shirley brings rigor, integrity, and a touch of practical wit to every project she tackles. She enjoys diving into the details, staying curious, and asking the questions that lead to smarter answers. Whether orchestrating multi-site trials or writing protocols, she's driven by a belief that good research and data lead to better care—and ultimately, healthier lives. To learn more about Floreo, visit About FloreoFloreo's vision is a world that is open and accessible for every neurodiverse person. Its mission is to create the first behavioral therapy metaverse, a virtual world that is safe for learners, equipping them with skills and tools they can apply in their everyday lives. Floreo has developed a virtual reality platform that teaches social, behavioral, communication, and life skills for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and other neurodiverse conditions. For more information, please visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Floreo Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Scottish Sun
I've pulled my little boy out of school over mean teachers – they say he assaults kids & lies but I know he's a good boy
The mum accused the school of 'breaking down his mental health' SCHOOL'S OUT I've pulled my little boy out of school over mean teachers – they say he assaults kids & lies but I know he's a good boy Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AN ANGRY mum has yanked her son out of school after claiming her was being targeted by mean teachers. Vicky Alderwick's son Grayson attends St Theresa's Catholic Primary School in Leeds. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 A mum removed her son from St Theresa's Catholic Primary School in Leeds Credit: Google Grayson has special education needs (SEN) and remains on the waiting list for an ADHD and ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) assessment. Vicky says she felt compelled to take him out of class for a week after several alleged incidents in which she says teachers shouted at Grayson in what she claimed was a "one-sided and unfair" manner. The West Yorkshire mum claims the stress of the situation has been so overwhelming that she has suffered seizures. Even more shockingly, she said her son had told her he would rather take his own life than return to school. "It is a fight to get Grayson into school as he doesn't want to go in because of what has happened. 'He gets really upset and has told me a few times that he would rather kill himself, which is awful to hear," she told Leeds Live. The concern parent claims that teachers regularly call Grayson a liar and was made to stand with his nose to the brick wall after one outburst. His mother claims her son was also denied a slice of pizza which the rest of the class had as a treat as punishment for an incident two days prior. She said that Grayson was told "your mum will be ok with it" and admits she "went ballistic" when she found out. Grayson also refused to eat his own food that day, meaning he went the entire day without food - something Vicky says has happened on three previous occasions also without the school informing her. Married deputy head had sex with teen girl in cupboard at top school However, St Thereasa's Catholic Primary School says it "strongly refutes" the allegations made by Vicky and says that all complaints will be dealt with by the proper processes. Vicky said that Grayson formerly enjoyed school and was respected there, but things began to change around a year ago. She alleges that teachers no longer provide all the support he needs for his special educational needs or neurodivergence and instead have branded him a "bad kid". Vicky also claims that the school have no plan in place to help deeesculate Grayson's behaviour and accused them of "breaking down his mental health." She says if Grayson shouts at someone or places his hand on their shoulder, the school regard it as 'assault' and shut him down. The mother also claims teachers regularly tell her son to "stop lying" and make him the scapegoat in classroom situations. Vicky branded the school's behaviour "unprofessional" and claims his medical history shows conclusively that Grayson's behaviour is rooted in his diagnoses and not him being a "bad boy". "He is just a misunderstood little boy. They do a lot of things that are humiliating to him, and he gets so embarrassed," she said. "I want to keep my son in school but I want him to feel safe. I know when he is lying and he is telling me the truth, so I believe him.' Jane Ryan, headteacher St Theresa's Catholic Primary School, said: "We pride ourselves on being a caring and inclusive school and take any complaint very seriously. "Whilst the school strongly refutes these specific allegations, all complaints received by the school are managed through the school's published complaints policy and procedures. "Whilst any complaints and allegations are being managed through the correct due process, it would be inappropriate for the school to provide a response or further comment." If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
The Irish Sun
3 days ago
- The Irish Sun
I've pulled my little boy out of school over mean teachers – they say he assaults kids & lies but I know he's a good boy
AN ANGRY mum has yanked her son out of school after claiming her was being targeted by mean teachers. Vicky Alderwick's son Grayson attends St Theresa's Catholic Primary School in Leeds. Advertisement 1 A mum removed her son from St Theresa's Catholic Primary School in Leeds Credit: Google Grayson has special education needs (SEN) and remains on the waiting list for an ADHD and ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) assessment. Vicky says she felt compelled to take him out of class for a week after several alleged incidents in which she says The West Yorkshire mum claims the stress of the situation has been so overwhelming that she has suffered seizures. Even more shockingly, she said her son had told her he would rather take his own life than return to school. Advertisement Read more on News "It is a fight to get Grayson into school as he doesn't want to go in because of what has happened. 'He gets really upset and has told me a few times that he would rather kill himself, which is awful to hear," she told Leeds Live. The concern parent claims that teachers regularly call Grayson a liar and was made to stand with his nose to the brick wall after one outburst. His mother claims her son was also denied Advertisement Most read in The Sun Breaking Warning She said that Grayson was told "your mum will be ok with it" and admits she "went ballistic" when she found out. Grayson also refused to eat his own food that day, meaning he went the entire day without food - something Vicky says has happened on three previous occasions also without the school informing her. Married deputy head had sex with teen girl in cupboard at top school However, St Thereasa's Catholic Primary School says it "strongly refutes" the allegations made by Vicky and says that all complaints will be dealt with by the proper processes. Vicky said that Grayson formerly enjoyed school and was respected there, but things began to change around a year ago. Advertisement She alleges that teachers no longer provide all the support he needs for his special educational needs or neurodivergence and instead have branded him a "bad kid". Vicky also claims that the school have no plan in place to help deeesculate Grayson's behaviour and accused them of "breaking down his mental health." She says if Grayson shouts at someone or places his hand on their shoulder, the school regard it as 'assault' and shut him down. The mother also claims teachers regularly tell her son to "stop lying" and make him the scapegoat in classroom situations. Advertisement Vicky branded the school's behaviour "unprofessional" and claims his medical history shows conclusively that Grayson's behaviour is rooted in his diagnoses and not him being a "bad boy". "He is just a misunderstood little boy. They do a lot of things that are humiliating to him, and he gets so embarrassed," she said. "I want to keep my son in school but I want him to feel safe. I know when he is lying and he is telling me the truth, so I believe him.' Jane Ryan, headteacher St Theresa's Catholic Primary School, said: "We pride ourselves on being a caring and inclusive school and take any complaint very seriously. Advertisement "Whilst the school strongly refutes these specific allegations, all complaints received by the school are managed through the school's published complaints policy and procedures. "Whilst any complaints and allegations are being managed through the correct due process, it would be inappropriate for the school to provide a response or further comment." If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
The Hindu
3 days ago
- General
- The Hindu
Why the world needs to embrace neurodiversity with dignity and respect
Every year on June 18, the world observes Autistic Pride Day, a day not of mourning or sympathy, but of celebration. It is a day that highlights the unique identities, strengths, and perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum. Unlike many awareness days that focus on deficits or challenges, Autistic Pride Day stands apart: it is about empowerment, acceptance, and embracing neurodiversity. What is autism? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and how individuals process information. But to define autism solely in terms of challenges is a limited and incomplete view. Many autistic individuals possess remarkable abilities in fields like mathematics, music, memory, design, and pattern recognition. The term 'spectrum' reflects the wide range of experiences from individuals requiring substantial support in daily life to those living independently and thriving in their careers and relationships. Why take pride in autism? To some, the word 'pride' might seem unusual when associated with a diagnosis. But the pride celebrated today is rooted in the idea of neurodiversity — the understanding that variations in brain function are a natural and valuable part of human diversity. Just as we embrace differences in culture, language, and background, we must also embrace neurological differences. For too long, many autistic individuals have heard messages that they are 'broken' or need to be 'fixed.' Autistic Pride Day challenges that narrative. It declares that they are whole, valuable, and worthy of inclusion - just as they are. Different, not less Temple Grandin, a renowned autistic advocate and scientist, once said: 'Different, not less.' This simple phrase captures the essence of Autistic Pride Day. Autistic individuals often see the world in ways that others don't - noticing patterns, solving problems creatively, and expressing themselves in beautifully unique ways. These are not deficits; they are differences. With the right support and inclusive attitudes, these differences can thrive. The role of society Many of the challenges faced by autistic individuals stem not from autism itself, but from societal barriers: limited access to inclusive education, workplace discrimination, sensory-inaccessible public spaces, and pervasive misunderstandings. Autistic Pride Day is a call to action especially for those outside the medical or caregiving community to be active allies. It urges us to: Listen to autistic voices Learn from lived experiences Support inclusive education and workplaces Design environments that accommodate sensory needs And most importantly, to treat every individual with dignity and compassion From awareness to acceptance While awareness of autism has grown in recent decades, we must move further toward acceptance, advocacy, and equity. The goal is not to 'fix' autistic people, but to change the systems that exclude them. This journey starts with conversations at home, continues through inclusive public policies, and leads to a society where autism is respected as a part of the human spectrum not a deviation from it. A message of hope Autistic Pride Day reminds us that every mind matters. In a world that often prioritises sameness, neurodiverse individuals bring authenticity, creativity, and depth. Whether as artists, scientists, thinkers, or simply as individuals navigating life in their own way ,they deserve to be seen, respected, and celebrated. This June 18, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a world where neurodiversity is honoured, differences are embraced, and every individual is treated with dignity and respect. (Dr. Javeed Zabiullah is a consultant psychiatrist at Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore.
