Autism affects all ethnicities, yet professionals do not always have the skills required to support the diverse needs of autistic young people and their families from different communities. As a result, families from these communities often experience issues in getting a diagnosis, access to educational and social care settings, appropriateness of social skills being taught to children, and misinterpretation of behaviour exhibited by these children, which can also lead to higher rates of exclusions.
This innovative book provides professionals with knowledge about the issues faced and equips them with practical strategies to resolve them. Drawing on his extensive experience and research, Perepa combines a comprehensive overview of autism and minority ethnic communities with guidance on how best to support children and young people from these communities. An essential resource for professionals working in our increasingly multicultural society.
This innovative book provides professionals with knowledge about the issues faced and equips them with practical strategies to resolve them. Drawing on his extensive experience and research, Perepa combines a comprehensive overview of autism and minority ethnic communities with guidance on how best to support children and young people from these communities. An essential resource for professionals working in our increasingly multicultural society.
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Reviews
This book is a must-have for everyone who has an interest in autism. The ways in which autism and ethnicity intersect has for far too long been overlooked and this book is hugely important in finally addressing its significance. Prithvi articulates clearly and thoughtfully why practitioners, researchers and parents need to give it more consideration, and how they should do so. It is an academic textbook grounded in evidence, with an accessible writing style which encourages the reader to reflect on what they are reading.
The impact of autism is global, very likely affecting all societies and ethnic groups. Yet until recently, most advances in theory, in diagnostic principles and in the development of interventions and support have occurred in Western countries. The consequence is a lack of emphasis on how cross-cultural differences may shape conceptions of autism and how best to meet the needs of autistic individuals within different ethnic groups. Prithvi Perepa's book offers a timely and valuable corrective to this Western-centric viewpoint. His text skilfully juxtaposes analysis of empirical research with a critique of the philosophical assumptions that impede a culturally nuanced account, complementing this with reflective exercises and practical guidance for those working with autistic people of all ethnicities. A much needed contribution to the field.
This is an important book for professionals, families and autistic people in highlighting significant issues linking autism, ethnicity and culture. Many questions are raised with regards to behaviour and communication patterns associated with autism and whether or not they are culture specific. The author's professional and personal experiences means that he is able to provide valuable insights into this complex and neglected area. Readers are encouraged to develop a reflective style and recognise their own potential bias.