A remarkable work that will stand at the forefront of the neurodiversity movement.--Barry M. Prizant, PhD, CCC-SLP, author of Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism

For every visibly Autistic person you meet, there are countless masked Autistic people who pass as neurotypical. Masking is a common coping mechanism in which Autistic people hide their identifiably Autistic traits in order to fit in with societal norms, adopting a superficial personality at the expense of their mental health. This can include suppressing harmless stims, papering over communication challenges by presenting as unassuming and mild-mannered, and forcing themselves into situations that cause severe anxiety, all so they aren't seen as needy or odd.

In Unmasking Autism, Dr. Devon Price shares his personal experience with masking and blends history, social science research, prescriptions, and personal profiles to tell a story of neurodivergence that has thus far been dominated by those on the outside looking in. For Dr. Price and many others, Autism is a deep source of uniqueness and beauty. Unfortunately, living in a neurotypical world means it can also be a source of incredible alienation and pain. Most masked Autistic individuals struggle for decades before discovering who they truly are. They are also more likely to be marginalized in terms of race, gender, sexual orientation, class, and other factors, which contributes to their suffering and invisibility. Dr. Price lays the groundwork for unmasking and offers exercises that encourage self-expression, including:

- Celebrating special interests
- Cultivating Autistic relationships
- Reframing Autistic stereotypes
- And rediscovering your values

It's time to honor the needs, diversity, and unique strengths of Autistic people so that they no longer have to mask--and it's time for greater public acceptance and accommodation of difference. In embracing neurodiversity, we can all reap the rewards of nonconformity and learn to live authentically, Autistic and neurotypical people alike.

When you're autistic, it can be tough to prioritize wellness.

Self-Care for Autistic People can help you engage in some neurodivergent self-care--without pretending to be neurotypical. You'll find more than 100 activities that help you accept yourself, destigmatize autism, find your community, and take care of your physical and mental health. You'll find solutions for managing the challenging aspects of autism, as well as ideas to bring out the many positive aspects. With expert advice from therapist Megan A. Neff, this book will help you make the most of your life and your diagnosis.

Unmasking for Life should be read by not only autistic people but their loved ones, to ensure they facilitate a truly fulfilling life.--Eric Garcia, author of We're Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation

Most masked Autistics have spent a lifetime being told how to perform neurotypically: how to behave, how to carry themselves, what to feel, and how to live. With his previous book, Unmasking Autism, Devon Price, PhD, has given them the space and the tools to unmask and embrace their neurodiversity. But no matter where you are in the unmasking process, there is still work to be done. Unmasking is more than just a personal process of self-acceptance, after all--it also requires figuring out how to move comfortably throughout life building friendships, nurturing family, pursuing love, finding a means of survival, and expressing oneself on one's own terms. In order to live a brilliantly unashamed Autistic life, you need more than internal healing--you need practical tools of assertiveness and interpersonal effectiveness, and solutions to the problems of ableism and inaccessibility.

Enter Unmasking for Life, which provides the resources to help you advocate for your needs and invent new ways of living, loving, and being that work with your disability rather than against it. You'll learn how to develop five key skills for living unmasked in all areas of life:

- Acceptance of change, loss, and uncertainty
- Engagement in productive conflict, discussion, and disagreement
- Transgression of unfair rules, demands, and social expectations
- Tolerance of distress, disagreement, or being disliked
- Creation of new accommodations, relationship structures, and new ways of living

Unmasking for Life will help validate and support you so you can move beyond unmasking your Autism and begin unmasking your world.

A groundbreaking book on autism, by one of the world's leading experts, who portrays autism as a unique way of being human--this is required reading...Breathtakingly simple and profoundly positive (Chicago Tribune).

Autism therapy typically focuses on ridding individuals of autistic symptoms such as difficulties interacting socially, communication problems, sensory challenges, and repetitive behavior patterns. Now, this updated and expanded edition of Dr. Barry M. Prizant's Uniquely Human tackles new language such as shifting from person-first language to identity-first language, diversity of identity in the autism sphere, and the future of autistic advocacy by amplifying the voices of autistic and neurodivergent individuals.

A must-read for anyone touched by autism...Dr. Prizant's Uniquely Human is a crucial step in promoting better understanding and a more humane approach (Associated Press). Instead of classifying autistic behaviors as signs of pathology, Dr. Prizant sees them as part of a range of strategies to cope with a world that feels chaotic and overwhelming. Rather than curb these behaviors, it's better to enhance abilities, build on strengths, and offer supports that will lead to more desirable behavior and a better quality of life.

Uniquely Human is a brilliant (Steve Silberman, author of NeuroTribes) approach to autism in the modern age that provides common sense [and] practical advice (Temple Grandin, author of The Autistic Brain) drawn from Dr. Prizant's four-decade career. It conveys a deep respect for people with autism and their own unique qualities. Filled with humanity and wisdom, Uniquely Human should reassure parents and caregivers of kids with autism and any other disability that their kids are not broken, but, indeed, special (Booklist, starred review).

Feeling burnt out? You're not alone. Autistic burnout is a challenge faced by many individuals on the autistic spectrum. And The Autistic Burnout Workbook is here to help.

This transformative guide is designed to empower individuals on the autism spectrum to manage and overcome burnout. Crafted with empathy and insight, this workbook provides practical strategies and exercises to help you navigate the unique challenges associated with burnout.

Through interactive prompts and activities, The Autistic Burnout Workbook teaches individuals how to identify triggers, manage sensory overload, and build resilience. It encourages self-reflection and cultivates a supportive environment for personal growth. This user-friendly workbook is a proactive approach to mental health, promoting self-care and fostering a sense of control that makes it a lifeline for those grappling with the realities of autistic burnout.

Who comes to mind when you think about an autistic person? It might be yourself, a relative or friend, a public figure, a fictional character, or a stereotyped image. Regardless, for most of us, it's likely to be someone male. Autistic women are systematically underdiagnosed, under-researched, and underserved by medical and social systems--to devastating effects.

In Off the Spectrum, cognitive neuroscientist Gina Rippon sheds light on how old ideas about autism leave women behind and how the scientific community must catch up. Generations of researchers, convinced autism was a male problem, simply didn't bother looking for it in women, creating a snowball effect of biased research. To correct this male spotlight problem, Rippon outlines how autism presents differently in girls and women--like their tendency to camouflage their autistic traits, or how their intense interests may take a form considered to be more socially acceptable. When autism research studies don't recruit female participants, Rippon argues, it's not only autistic women who are failed; it's the entire scientific community. Correcting a major scientific bias, Off the Spectrum provides a much-needed exploration of autism in women to parents, clinicians, and autistic women themselves.

WINNER OF THE SAMUEL JOHNSON PRIZE FOR NONFICTION AND THE CALIFORNIA BOOK AWARD

What is autism? A lifelong disability, or a naturally occurring form of cognitive difference akin to certain forms of genius? In truth, it is all of these things and more--and the future of our society depends on our understanding it. Wired reporter Steve Silberman unearths the secret history of autism, long suppressed by the same clinicians who became famous for discovering it, and finds surprising answers to the crucial question of why the number of diagnoses has soared in recent years. Going back to the earliest days of autism research, Silberman offers a gripping narrative of Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger, the research pioneers who defined the scope of autism in profoundly different ways; he then goes on to explore the game-changing concept of neurodiversity. NeuroTribes considers the idea that neurological differences such as autism, dyslexia, and ADHD are not errors of nature or products of the toxic modern world, but the result of natural variations in the human genome. This groundbreaking book will reshape our understanding of the history, meaning, function, and implications of neurodiversity in our world.

Exploding the tired stereotypes of autism, Daniel Tammet--acclaimed author and an autistic savant himself--draws out the inner worlds of nine extraordinary, neurodivergent lives from around the globe. A nonverbal man from Boston explores body language, gesture by eloquent gesture, in his mother's yoga classes. A Japanese researcher in psychology sets out to measure loneliness while drawing on her own experience of autism. From a Fields Medal-winning mathematician to a murder detective, a pioneering surgeon to a bestselling novelist, each is remarkable in their field, and each is changing how the world sees those on the spectrum.

Telling stories as richly diverse as the spectrum itself, this perspective-altering, life-affirming work of narrative nonfiction celebrates the power and beauty of the neurodivergent mind--and the daring freedom with which these individuals have built their lives.

Neurodiversity is one of the most urgent political issues of our time. As the number of diagnoses of autism, ADHD, and other types of neurodivergence rises, we are starting to understand that there is no such thing as a 'normal' brain. But society is still organised around neuronormativity, and autism is treated as a disease.

Jodie Hare, diagnosed with autism at twenty-three, argues it is time to redefine the politics of who we are. She calls for the recognition of diversity as part of natural variation, rather than a departure from sameness. This will have an impact on the places where we learn, work, and socialise - and Hare shows how these can be adapted to be more inclusive and accessible. She shows how we might commit to building a world where we can all thrive, one that works to combat discrimination based on race, class, gender, and disability.

The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome is the definitive handbook for anyone affected by Asperger's syndrome (AS). Now including a new introduction explaining the impact of DSM-5 on the diagnosis and approach to AS, it brings together a wealth of information on all aspects of the syndrome for children through to adults.

Drawing on case studies and personal accounts from Attwood's extensive clinical experience, and from his correspondence with individuals with AS, this book is both authoritative and extremely accessible. Chapters examine:

* causes and indications of the syndrome
* the diagnosis and its effect on the individual
* theory of mind
* the perception of emotions in self and others
* social interaction, including friendships
* long-term relationships
* teasing, bullying and mental health issues
* the effect of AS on language and cognitive abilities, sensory sensitivity, movement and co-ordination skills
* career development.

There is also an invaluable frequently asked questions chapter and a section listing useful resources for anyone wishing to find further information on a particular aspect of AS, as well as literature and educational tools.

Essential reading for families and individuals affected by AS as well as teachers, professionals and employers coming in contact with people with AS, this book should be on the bookshelf of anyone who needs to know or is interested in this complex condition.

'I usually say to the child, Congratulations, you have Asperger's syndrome, and explain that this means he or she is not mad, bad or defective, but has a different way of thinking.'
- from The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome

Embrace neurodiversity and foster understanding

Autism For Dummies is a comprehensive guide exploring the full spectrum of autism experiences. This essential resource deepens understanding for self-advocates, parents, educators, and professionals, fostering respect and acceptance for all individuals on the autism spectrum. Covering the basics of autism, including the latest research and diagnostic criteria, the book offers insights into neurological diversity. It acknowledges the vastly different abilities and support needs among autistic individuals, portraying these experiences with depth and empathy.

The book addresses families' and caregivers' experiences, offering candid testimonials and practical advice on advocating for resources, fostering supportive communities, and ensuring the best outcomes for their children. Autism For Dummies bridges polarized views within the autism community, highlighting self-advocates' calls for independence and parents' need for comprehensive support.

Through respectful dialogue and shared stories, the book encourages an enlightened approach to support and acceptance and provides practical strategies for inclusion, covering tools for communities, schools, and workplaces to become more accommodating and empowering.

The book:

• Explains the varied support needs of autistic individuals, from extensive daily support to minimal assistance
• Offers strategies for caregivers supporting children and adults with autism
• Includes candid testimonials and practical advice from real families on how to advocate for appropriate resources and foster supportive environments
• Provides tools for inclusive communities, schools, and workplaces

With its compassionate and inclusive approach, Autism For Dummies educates and inspires broader understanding and acceptance, calling on readers to help create a society where every autistic individual can thrive.

Growing up isn't easy, and the trials and tribulations of being a teenager can be particularly confusing for girls with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). This book covers all the concerns commonly faced by girls with ASDs and their parents, from periods and puberty to worries over friendships and fitting in.
Taking a good look at these adolescent issues, and many more, within the context of specific areas of difficulty for girls with ASDs, the authors provide families with the knowledge and advice they need to help their daughters - and the whole family - through the teenage years. This book addresses core issues such as cognition, communication, behavior, sensory sensitivities, and social difficulties; it gives candid and realistic advice on a wide range of important teenage topics.
Providing professional perspectives alongside personal experiences from mothers, daughters and educators, this is a unique and indispensible guide for families and their daughters with ASDs, as well as the teachers and professionals who work with them.

Let this workbook guide you toward your authentic, autistic self. You don't have to hide anymore.

If you grew up before the neurodiversity movement, chances are you were taught at an early age that your autistic traits were wrong or bad. Whether it was stimming, difficulties with making small talk, avoiding eye contact, sensitivities to loud sounds or certain textures, or even talking passionately about the things you care about--somewhere along the way you learned to mask these aspects of yourself to better fit in, avoid bullying from other kids, and in some cases to even gain the love of your own parents. The problem is that, over time, masking can lead to higher levels of stress, burnout, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and depression. So how can you be your authentic self and still succeed and thrive in a neurotypical world?

Written by a therapist who is actually autistic, this neurodiversity-affirming workbook offers skills to help you cultivate self-acceptance, manage intense emotions, and be your own advocate when needed. You'll take a good look at the situations or people that caused you to mask in the first place. You'll also discover:

• How to set and achieve your own authentic goals--with a clear view of who you are and what you care about
• Why self-love and self-acceptance is so important for autistic folks
• How to live your life on your own terms, while self-advocating for accommodations
• How to let go of old, hurtful messages about autistic people that you've internalized
• How autism can be both a strength and a disability
• Strategies to cope with burnout or meltdowns
• How to be assertive and set boundaries with others

You don't have to mask, hide, or camouflage any longer. Let this workbook guide you on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. You are worthy of it. And you deserve it.

Potty training a child with developmental disorders can be a real challenge, and sometimes the extra difficulties make you feel as though you've tried everything, and failed. In this book, Brenda Batts shows how you can overcome problems, big and small, and provides tried and tested methods that really work, tailored to each individual child.

Bursting with ideas on how to see past conventional strategies and adapt toilet training to suit your child, this book outlines methods that have helped even the most despairing of parents and caregivers. Examples of success stories range from two-year-olds to adults aged 20, and show that no matter how difficult it may seem, a little creativity and adaptation can get anyone toilet trained, however many previous attempts have failed. The program itself is supported by plenty of helpful hints and tips, as Brenda covers all you need to get your child past the diaper stage and help them to achieve a big step towards independence.

This book is a must for anybody looking to toilet train someone with developmental disorders.

Though our understanding of autism has greatly expanded, many autistic individuals are still missed or misdiagnosed. This highly accessible book clarifies many ways that autism can present, particularly in people who camouflage to hide their autistic traits.

The authors take the reader step by step through the diagnostic criteria, incorporating the latest research as well as quotes from over 100 autistic contributors that bring that research to life. They also describe many aspects of autism that are not included in the current diagnostic criteria, such as autistic strengths and co-occurring disorders. Readers will learn about highly relevant topics, such as different types of empathy, sensory systems that are not well known, neuro-crash and burn out, and relative versus absolute thinking.

This book provides a deep, current, and neurodiversity-affirmative understanding of the less obvious presentations of autism. It is relevant to all healthcare professionals, educators, family members, autistic individuals, and anyone who is curious about autism. A clinical companion guide, Is This Autism? A Companion Guide for Diagnosing, is available for clinicians who make mental health diagnoses.

An estimated one in thirty-six children in the United States is diagnosed with autism. New research has shed light on the many factors that determine a child's trajectory--but many parents are still navigating this complex terrain without a road map. Pediatric neurologist Dr. Suzanne Goh has spent decades working with autistic children, and in this practical and research-based guide she shares her renowned and revolutionary model of care: an innovative, whole-child approach that combines optimal medical treatment with the most effective strategies for advancing cognition, communication, and behavior.

Demystifying a wide range of diagnostics and therapies and offering new insights into the neurological, biochemical, behavioral, and social factors that play a role in successful outcomes, the book is an essential resource for understanding all of autism--a strengths-based approach that helps parents design a comprehensive treatment plan. It is also a celebration of what each autistic person brings to the world--and how parents can best nurture the remarkable uniqueness of their child while setting them up for the future they envision.

The difference that being female makes to the diagnosis, life and experiences of an autistic person is hugely significant. In this widely expanded second edition, Sarah Hendrickx combines the latest research with personal stories from girls and women on the autism spectrum to present a picture of their feelings, thoughts and experiences at each stage of their lives.
Outlining the likely impact will be for autistic women and girls throughout their lifespan, Hendrickx surveys everything from diagnosis, childhood, education, adolescence, friendships and sexuality, to employment, pregnancy, parenting, and aging.
With up-to-date content on masking, diagnosis later in life, and a new focus on trans and non-binary voices, as well as a deeper dive into specific health and wellbeing implications including menopause, PCOS, Hypermobility/Ehlers-Danlos, autistic burnout, and alexithymia, this is an invaluable companion for professionals, as well as a guiding light for autistic women to understand and interpret their own experience in context.

Discover strengths-based strategies to help your child with autism build life skills starting today

It can be a challenge to manage life as a special needs parent and feel like you are doing all you can to support your child's growth and development. Positive Parenting for Autism offers proven techniques for helping your child with autism develop the foundational skills they need to thrive and live a fulfilling life.

Using scientifically supported strategies based in applied behavior analysis (ABA), this practical guide provides concrete tools for developing personalized behavior change plans aimed at both increasing your child's positive behaviors and decreasing unwanted or problem behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorders. Take a deep dive into topics like punishment alternatives, the power of reinforcement, communication and cooperation, and teaching complex behaviors in straightforward ways.

All parenting books on autism should include:

• An introduction to ABA--Learn more about applied behavior analysis, including how and why it's used to treat people with autism, how you can get your child on board, and what you need to get started.
• Strengths-based strategies--Explore techniques that are positive and strengths-based, rather than punishing or pathologizing, so your child is empowered to meet, and even exceed, the goals you envision for them.
• Examples of ABA in practice--Read real-life examples of these techniques in action to help you understand how these new skills and strategies address the everyday situations you and your child with autism face.

Support your child with autism as they build necessary social and life skills with help from these practical, evidence-based techniques.

This book is a message from autistic people to their parents, friends, teachers, coworkers and doctors showing what life is like on the spectrum. It's also my love letter to autistic people. For too long, we have been forced to navigate a world where all the road signs are written in another language.

With a reporter's eye and an insider's perspective, Eric Garcia shows what it's like to be autistic across America.

Garcia began writing about autism because he was frustrated by the media's coverage of it: the myths that the disorder is caused by vaccines, the narrow portrayals of autistic people as white men working in Silicon Valley. His own life as an autistic person didn't look anything like that. He is Latino, a graduate of the University of North Carolina, and works as a journalist covering politics in Washington, DC. Garcia realized he needed to put into writing what so many autistic people have been saying for years--autism is a part of their identity, they don't need to be fixed.

In We're Not Broken, Garcia uses his own life as a springboard to discuss the social and policy gaps that exist in supporting those on the spectrum. From education to healthcare, he explores how autistic people wrestle with systems that were not built with them in mind. At the same time, he shares the experiences of all types of autistic people, from those with higher support needs, to autistic people of color, to those in the LGBTQ community. In doing so, Garcia gives his community a platform to articulate their own needs, rather than having others speak for them, which has been the standard for far too long