college essay examples autism

Autism - List of Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. Essays could explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment of autism, the experiences of individuals with autism, and societal understanding and acceptance of autism. We’ve gathered an extensive assortment of free essay samples on the topic of Autism you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Rain Man and Autism

The film Rain man was released into theaters in 1988 and was awarded many awards along with an Academy Award. The movie starts off by showing Charlie who works as a car salesman, attempting to close on a deal involving four Lamborghinis. Charlie decides to drive with his girlfriend Susanna to ensure that this deal goes through. On the drive over Charlie receives a call telling him that his father has just passed away. Charlie and his girlfriend go his […]

Applied Behavior Analysis and its Effects on Autism

Abstract During my research i have found several studies that have been done to support the fact that Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) does in fact make a positive impact on children with Autism through discrete trials. It is based on the thought that when a child is rewarded for a positive behavior or correct social interaction the process will want to be repeated. Eventually one would phase out the reward. Dr Lovaas, who invented this method, has spent his career […]

The Unique Parenting Challenges are Faced by the Parents of Special Children

Introduction For typical children, parenting experiences are shared by other parents whereas the unique parenting challenges are faced by the parents of special children. Mobility and Inclusion of the parents as well as children are affected many a times. Even though careful analysis often reveals abilities, habitual tendency to perceive the disabilities from society’s part often hinders effective normalization and proper rehabilitation. All impose severe identity crisis and role restrictions even in knowledgeable parents.. In some conditions, as in the […]

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Autism in Japanese Manga and its Significance on Current Progression in J-pop Culture

Abstract In this paper I will explore and examine Autism in Manga, the social and cultural context of Autism in Manga, its movement, and importance of Tobe Keiko’s, “With the Light.” Manga is a huge part of Japanese culture and can be appreciated by so many different people. There are different types of Manga that have been specifically produced for that type of audience. In this paper, I will address the less talked about, women’s Manga or also known as […]

Speech Therapist for Autism

Abstract Autism Spectrum Disorder is a condition that consists of various challenges to an individual such as social skills, nonverbal communication, repetitive behaviors and difficulties with speech. So far doctors have not been able to find out what causes autism although it is believed that it involves both environmental and genetic factors. Autism can usually be detected at an early age, therefore giving the patient and therapist an early start to improve their verbal skills. Speech language pathologists also known […]

Virtual Reality in Regards to Health and how it Can be Life-Changing

        Exploring Virtual Reality in Health Diego Leon Professor Ron Frazier October 29, 2018, Introduction When most individuals think of technology involving computers, they think it can solely involve two of the five senses we humans have – vision (sight) and hearing (audition). But what if we could interact with more than two sensorial channels? Virtual reality deals with just that. Virtual reality is defined as a “high-end user interface that involves real-time simulation and interaction through […]

Growing up with Autism

Autism is a profound spectrum disorder; symptoms, as well as severity, range. It is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in America. For every 68 children born in the United States, 1 is diagnosed with a neurological development disorder that impairs their ability to interact and communicate on what we constitute as normal levels. Autism is multifaceted; it affects the brain development of millions worldwide. Not only are those diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum facing difficulties, but the family members […]

Kids with Autism

In this earth we have many different lifeforms. Animals, plants, insects, and people. Humans have populated the earth all throughout it. Some people are born healthy and some are born will disorders and illnesses and diseases. One of the disorders is Autism. Autism is constantly affecting the people who have it and the people around them all over the world. So what is Autism? Autism is a disorder that impairs the ability for social interaction and communication. It is very […]

My Personal Experience of Getting to Know Asperger’s Syndrome

The beginning of this paper covers the history of Asperger’s Syndrome, followed by an explanation of what Asperger’s is. The history provides detailed insights into Hans Asperger and Leo Kanner, and their relationship to each other. Their work has significantly enriched our understanding of the research surrounding Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. The paper also discusses the process leading to Asperger’s becoming a recognized diagnosis, including the contributions of Lorna Wing and Ulta Frita. Furthermore, it traces Asperger’s entry into the […]

Cultural Stereotypes and Autism Disorder

“It’s the fastest growing developmental disability, autism” (Murray, 2008, p.2). “It is a complex neurological disorder that impedes or prevents effective verbal communication, effective social interaction, and appropriate behavior” (Ennis-Cole, Durodoye, & Harris, 2013). “Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong disorder that may have comorbid conditions like attention deficit disorder (ADD)/attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorder, stereotypical and self-stimulatory behaviors, insomnia, intellectual disabilities, obsessive compulsive disorder, seizure disorder/epilepsy, Tourette syndrome, Tic disorders, gastrointestinal problems, and other conditions. Another certainty, […]

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a cognitive disability that affects a person’s “communication, social, verbal, and motor skills” . The umbrella term of ASD created in 2013 by the American Psychiatric Association that covered 5 separate autism diagnosis and combined them into one umbrella term, the previous terms being Autistic Disorder, Rett syndrome, Asperger’s Disorder, Childhood disintegrative Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. The word spectrum in the diagnosis refers to the fact that the disability does not manifest itself in […]

Defining Altruism Issue

In current society, it can be justified that the level of autonomy directly influences the amount of altruism an autistic adolescent implements. Defining Altruism: When it comes to the comprehension of socialization within the development of behaviors in adolescents, altruism is vital. Although there is no true altruism, more or less altruism can be determined based upon the involuntary actions and behaviors of an individual. In the absence of motivation, altruism cannot transpire. An altruist must have the inherent belief […]

911 Telecommunicators Response to Autism

Autism is becoming more prevalent every day. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention released new statistics in 2018. Nationally, 1 in 59 children have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and boys are 4 (four) times more likely to have autism than girls. 1 in 37 boys and 1 in 151 girls were found to have autism. These are incredibly high statistics that will affect our communities across the United States We, as Telecommunicators, need to know how to understand and […]

Representation of Autism in the Netflix TV Show “Atypical”

In the first season of the TV show “Atypical”, the viewer meets the Gardner family, a seemingly normal family with an autistic teenage son, Sam, as the focus. This show failed initially to deviate from typical portrayals of autistic people on screens, as a white male, intellectually gifted, and seemingly unrelatable, although it seemed to try. Sam acts in ways that seem almost unbelievable for even someone with autism to, such as when he declares his love for someone else […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of developmental disorders that challenges a child’s skills in social interaction, communication, and behavior. ASD’s collective signs and symptoms may include: making little eye contact, repetitive behaviors, parallel play, unexplainable temper tantrums, misunderstanding of nonverbal cues, focused interests, and/or sensory overload. Positive symptoms of ASD may reflect above-average intelligence, excellence in math, science, or art, and the ability to learn things in detail. A question that many parent has is whAlthough an individual […]

The Complexity of Autism

Autism spectrum disorder is a complex disease that affects the developmental and speech capabilities of adolescents that carries with them to adulthood. It is distinctly apparent when the child is still very young and able to be diagnosed from about a year and a half old onwards. Although the disease cannot be pinpointed to one specific area of the brain, it is believed to stem from a glitchy gene that makes the child more susceptible to developing autism, oxygen deprivation […]

An Overview of the Five Deadly Diseases that Affect the Human Brain

There are hundreds of diseases that affect the brain. Every day, we fight these diseases just as vehemently as they afflict their carriers. Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, depression, autism, and strokes are just five of the most lethal and debilitating diseases that afflict human brains. Parkinson's disease alone claims up to 18,000 lives a year (Hagerman 1). But what is it? Parkinson's disease occurs when a brain chemical called dopamine begins to die in a region that facilitates muscle movement. Consequently, […]

Autism Genes: Unveiling the Complexities

“Autism is a brain disorder that typically affects a person’s ability to communicate, form relationships with others and respond appropriately to the environment (www.childdevelopmentinfo.com).” There are different levels of autism. “There is the autistic disorder, Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental syndrome (www.asws.org).” According to (www.everydayhealth.com/autism/types), “Each situation is unique as there are many levels and severities of it. Many cases also include sensory difficulties. These can range from imaginary sights and sounds to other sensations.” There are many different characteristics […]

Autism and Assistive Technology for Autistic Children

Autism is a complex neurobehavioral condition that is found in a person from early childhood days where the person faces difficulty in communicating with another person. It is also known as ASD or Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is a spectrum disorder because its effect varies from person to person. This is caused due to some changes that happen during early brain development. It is suggested that it may arise from abnormalities in parts of the brain that interpret sensory input […]

The Evolution of Autism Diagnosis: from Misunderstanding to Scientific Approach

Autism has come a long way from the early 1980s when it was rarely diagnosed to today where 100 out 10,000 kids are diagnosed. Autism is defined as a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior (NIMH 2018). There are many aspects surrounding Autism and the underlying effects that play a role in Autism. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, people with Autism have “Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people Restricted interests and repetitive […]

Do Vaccines Cause Autism

In a world of medicines and “mommy bloggers”, there is a controversy between pro-vaxxers and anti-vaxxers. The vaccination controversy cause an uproar for many people, understandably, it’s very polarized- you strongly believe in them or you strongly do not. For me, at the age of 15, I strongly believe in the Pro-Vaccine movement and I have data that can back me up. For starters, you may wonder ‘what is a vaccine’ or ‘how to do they work’. For a general […]

Autism: Characteristics, Diagnosis, and Understanding

The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder has nearly doubled in recent years, and the numbers are staggering: nearly 1 in every 59 children are diagnosed with autism in the United States alone. Yet, there are so many questions surrounding the complexity and increase in diagnoses of this condition that affects so many in such diverse ways. (Autism Speaks) How autism originates in the first place and its impact on communication, both verbal and nonverbal, are questions that need to be […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder and its Positive Effects

 What would it feel like if you were constantly ignored or treated as though you have little usefulness? Many people experience this kind of treatment their entire lives. Long has it been assumed that people with mental disabilities such as Autism, were meant to be cared for but to never expect any value from them. Evil men such as Hitler even went so far as to kill them because he thought they had no use to society. However, there is […]

Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and behavior, generally diagnosed within the early stages of life. No two individuals living with Autism experience the same symptoms, as the type and severity varies with each case (Holland, 2018.). Autism has been around for hundreds of years, but the definition has evolved immensely. In 1943, scientists Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger conducted research on individuals with social and emotional deficits to better refine the definition […]

Raising a Child with Autism

All impose severe identity crisis and role restrictions even in knowledgeable parents.. In some conditions, as in the case of physical challenges, the child needs physical reassurance and support from the parents against those conditions of cognitive deficits in which the demands are always parent’s constant attention and feedback. As far as autism is concerned, the child’s deficits are many namely social, emotional, communicational, sensual, as well as behavioral. Symptoms are usually identified between one and two years of age. […]

Is Autism a Kind of Brain Damage

Many people have different views about autism. Autism may be only one simple word, but with this one word comes many forms in the way it could affect people with this disability. Autism should not be looked down on as much as this disability is from others in society. It may seem as if it has more “cons” than “pros” as some call them, but if looked at from a better perspective, there could be more pros than cons and […]

Trouble with Social Aspects and People on the Autism Spectrum

Autism in childhood starts as early as age two, and symptoms will become more severe as children continue into elementary school. When a child goes to a psychiatrist, they will work on social development. Adolescence with autism struggle when attempting to project others pain. For example, my brother has Asperger's and when I have a bone graph done on my hand, he could not stop touching my hand. He needed constant reminders to not touch and remind him of when […]

Effects of Autism

When he was eight years old, the parents of Joshua Dushack learned that their son was different. He had been diagnosed with Autism. According to the doctors, Joshua would never be able to read, write, talk, or go to school on his own. This might have been the case, had his parents accepted it. But his mother saw her son as a normal boy, and treated him as such. He did need some extra help in school, but because of […]

How Different Types of Assistive Technology Can Help Children with Autism

I. Introduction An anonymous speaker once said, “some people with Autism may not be able to speak or answer to their name, but they can still hear your words and feel your kindness.” Approximately thirty percent of people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder never learn to speak more than a few words (Forman & Rudy, 2018). Fortunately in today’s society, new technologies have made it possible for these individuals to communicate and socialize with others. Purpose The primary focus of […]

Searching Employment Autism

Over the last 20 years, there has been an alarming increase for children who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in the year 2000 1 in 159 children would be diagnosed with ASD. In the latest version of the study, the number has been reduced to 1 in 59 children will be diagnosed with ASD (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018). This is a subject that […]

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How To Write an Essay About Autism

Understanding autism.

Before writing an essay about autism, it's essential to understand what autism is and the spectrum of conditions it encompasses. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. It is characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. Start your essay by explaining the nature of autism, its symptoms, and the spectrum concept, which acknowledges a range of strengths and challenges experienced by individuals with autism. It's also important to discuss the causes and diagnosis of autism, as well as the common misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding it. This foundational knowledge will set the stage for a more in-depth exploration of the topic.

Developing a Focused Thesis Statement

A strong essay on autism should be centered around a clear, focused thesis statement. This statement should present a specific angle or argument about autism. For example, you might discuss the importance of early intervention and therapy, the representation of autism in media, or the challenges faced by individuals with autism in education and employment. Your thesis will guide the direction of your essay and ensure that your analysis is structured and coherent.

Gathering and Analyzing Data

To support your thesis, gather relevant data and research from credible sources. This might include scientific studies, statistics, reports from autism advocacy organizations, and personal narratives. Analyze this data critically, considering different perspectives and the quality of the evidence. Including a range of viewpoints will strengthen your argument and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Discussing Implications and Interventions

A significant portion of your essay should be dedicated to discussing the broader implications of autism and potential interventions. This can include the impact of autism on individuals and families, educational strategies, therapeutic approaches, and social support systems. Evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions, drawing on case studies or research findings. Discussing both the successes and challenges in managing and understanding autism will provide a balanced view and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Concluding the Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the key points of your discussion and restating your thesis in light of the evidence and examples provided. Your conclusion should tie together your analysis and emphasize the significance of understanding and supporting individuals with autism. You might also want to highlight areas where further research or development is needed or the potential for societal changes to improve the lives of those with autism.

Final Review and Editing

After completing your essay, it's important to review and edit your work. Ensure that your arguments are clearly articulated and supported by evidence. Check for grammatical accuracy and ensure that your essay flows logically from one point to the next. Consider seeking feedback from peers or experts in the field to refine your essay further. A well-crafted essay on autism will not only inform but also engage readers in considering the complexities of this condition and the collective efforts required to support those affected by it.

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Autism Spectrum College Essays Samples For Students

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Do you feel the need to examine some previously written College Essays on Autism Spectrum before you get down to writing an own piece? In this free collection of Autism Spectrum College Essay examples, you are given a fascinating opportunity to discover meaningful topics, content structuring techniques, text flow, formatting styles, and other academically acclaimed writing practices. Adopting them while composing your own Autism Spectrum College Essay will surely allow you to finalize the piece faster.

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Good Essay About Autism Spectrum Disorder And Challenging Behaviors

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Study Selection For Scientific Merit Paper Essay

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Comprehensive sexual education is fundamental for health of individual. Sexual education for autistic students in high school is essential. This group of students is often ignored as they are seen unable to have sexual pleasures due to their disability. These students often have poor social interactions and behave inappropriate in public due to lack of sexual education. The paper discuses the rationale for provision of education for this group, the educational benefits accrued and the development of a successful training session to address education for autistic students.

Comparative Essay Essays Example

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and he was born in the United States. His parents migrated from Ecuador and they speak

Spanish at home. While his father is able to communicate with a limited vocabulary his

mother has less command of the English language. Christopher is on the Autistic Spectrum and he has been having Speech Therapy to help him develop his language.

Personal Identity

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Essay

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Introduction

Biological and genetic aspects of autism spectrum disorders, asd etiology, prevalence of asd, diagnosis of asd, treatment of asd.

Autism is a serious disorder that has the potential to disrupt the success of people living with it. This report shall set out to explore various aspects regarding this disorder. To this end, an overview of the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment shall be offered. This shall aim at expanding our understanding regarding this disorder so as to enable us to be better prepared to handle it whenever the need arises.

Autism has been noted to be among the most prevalent childhood psychiatric disorder. Kuder (2003) denotes that in the USA, an estimated 2.1% of the population aged between 8 and 17 is affected by autism in its various forms.

Autism is manifested by varied behavior but it is chiefly characterized by inability to communicate, lingual deficits, lack of a sustained attention, low level of activity, temper tantrums, sleep disturbance, aggression inadequate motor control and other non-compliant behavior. These behaviors are detrimental to the social and educational endeavors of the people involved.

Autism spectrum is a medical term that is used to describe children and adults who experience difficulties in motor coordination, socializing, communicating (verbal and non-verbal) and language acquisition (Tager-Flusberg, Paul and Lord, 2005). The authors describe autism as a neurological disorder that stems from the brain’s inability to carryout some functions normally.

The causes of Autism as well as the reasons why it affects lingual and communication skills are not entirely known though there is a close linkage between Autism and genetics.

Studies indicate that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is inherited between family members. A study conducted by the American Psychiatric Association (2000) indicated that there is a 3-6% chance of getting autism amongst siblings.

However, Korvatska et al (2002) state that the difficulty experienced by scientists in pinpointing the genetic aspects of autism emanates from the lack of extended family histories. In most cases, autistic individual become more detached socially that they rarely marry or have children. As such, finding a family that has detailed genetic information regarding autism is difficult.

On a brighter note, twins have been used to explore the genetics behind autism (Beaudet, 2007). One study indicated an 82% likelihood of an autistic identical twin having the same disorder. This is in contrast to the 10% likelihood indicated by results from fraternal twins. More sophisticated studies have in the recent past concluded that 90% of autism related behavioral phenotypes are as a result of inherited genes (Happé & Ronald, 2008). This shows that there is a strong relationship between autism and genes.

Biologically, the root cause of autism has been difficult due to relative inability to access and study the brain systematically. However, technological innovations and advancements such as MRIs, CT scans and SPECT have made it possible to study the structure and functionality of the brain.

As a result, specialists have been able to deduce that majority of the brain’s structures play a pivotal role in the development of ASD. According to NIMH (2009, p. 1) they include but are not limited to “the cerebellum, cerebral cortex, limbic system, corpus callosum, basal ganglia, and brain stem”.

Similarly, other studies indicate that various neurotransmitters such as serotonin and epinephrine have a strong link to autism. The diagram below shows the biological basis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. It shows various structures of the brain and explains the functions that each play. Various symptoms of ASD are as a result of the structures’ inability to carry out their normal function.

A diagram showing brain structures linked to ASD

As mentioned earlier, the causes of ASD are not well known. However, researches conducted in this regard indicate that genetic, nutritional and environmental factors play a pivotal role in the development of the disorders. Results from numerous studies indicate that genetic factors predominate.

Others indicate that certain foods, infectious diseases, plastic and metallic extracts could cause autism. Similarly, smoking, alcohol, illicit drugs and some (mercury-based) childhood vaccines have also been attributed to causing autism. However, none of these causes are conclusive and more research needs to be conducted. This is to mean that the theory of causation regarding autism is not complete as yet.

The most recent survey conducted by center of disease control (CDC) indicated that autism rates have increased significantly over the past three decades. In most cases, studies indicate that autism is most prevalent among children. According to Rutter (2005), boys are four times more likely to be autistic than their female counterparts.

In addition, the author states that the symptoms of autism exhibit themselves from childbirth until three years of age. Parents are the most likely to discover these symptoms. As a result, they should ensure that they have their children checked at the onset of various abnormal behaviors.

Rutter (2005) asserts that the prevalence of autism disorder has been facilitated by ignorance and assumptions made by caretakers. In some cases, parents assume that their children are ‘slow and that they will develop as they grow up. However, this approach has proven to be costly since autism can best be handled as soon as it is detected.

Delaying makes it difficult to come up with remedies and coping mechanisms for both parents and the individuals having autism disorders. The main symptoms of this disorder include communication (verbal and non-verbal) difficulties, inability to develop and maintain relations with other people, abnormal lingual patterns and repetitive behaviors. Whenever any of these symptoms are discovered, it is highly recommended that medical or psychiatric assistance be sought.

An early diagnosis of ASD is important since it enables the people involved to come up with effective interventions before its too late. Recent studies show that intensive interventions administered in a control environment for a minimum of two years during preschool leads to behavioral and social improvements among children with ASD.

Clinicians base their diagnosis depending on the behavioral traits exhibited by a child. For a diagnosis to be made, NIMH (2009) asserts that at least one of the symptoms associated with ASD must be present. This means that a patient must have abnormal patterns of communication, socialization and restrictive behaviors.

In most cases, the diagnosis is made through a two-stage process. The first stage is “a developmental screening normally conducted during the routine childhood check-ups, while the second one involves a more comprehensive behavioral analysis by a team of experts (NIMH, 2009, p. 1).” Below are the stages that are followed to diagnose ASD.

The American Psychiatric Association (2000) recommends that every parent should ensure that a developmental screening test is carried out for his/her child during the “well child” check-up. The author contends that screening plays a pivotal role in the early identification of ASD symptoms.

Due to its importance, there are various screening instruments that have been developed to facilitate the diagnosis process. They include but are not limited to Checklist of Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) and its modified version; M-CHAT. Similarly, the Screening Tool for Autism in Two-Year-Olds (STAT) as well as the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) have proven to be effective in diagnosing ASD in children aged between two years old and above four years old respectively.

According to Tadevosyan-Leyfer et al (2003), questionnaires given to parents provide important information during the diagnosis process. As such, some instruments rely on such responses while others depend on these responses as well as observations made by the caregiver. However, these screening instruments are not as effective as they should be when it comes to identifying mild ASD or Asperger syndrome. As a result, other screening instruments such as the Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ) and the Childhood Asperger Syndrome Test (CAST) among others have been developed so as to diagnose these forms of ASD (NIMH, 2009).

Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation

This is the second stage of diagnosis and it relies on the skills of a team of different experts such as psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists, and therapists among others. This evaluation entails a comprehensive analysis of neural, genetic, cognitive and language testing in order to conclude whether a patient is suffering from autism or other behavioral disorders.

Some of the instruments used at this stage include: Autism Diagnosis Interview-Revised (ADI-R), which is a structured interview designed to test a child’s “communication, social interaction, restrictive behaviors and age-of-onset symptoms, and the Autism Diagnosis Observation Scheduling (ADOS-G), which is designed to identify abnormal, missing or delayed communication and social behaviors (NIMH, 2009, p. 1).”

The teams of experts that conduct this diagnosis determine the strengths and weaknesses of the child and recommend various treatment options that should be undertaken.

According to Freitag (2007) there is no one-shoe-fits-all approach to treating ASD. However, specialists in this area seem to agree on the fact that early interventions are of great importance. Arguably, the best treatment is one that considers the interests of the patient, allows the patient to learn in accordance to his/her ability and causes no harm to the overall well being of the patient. With this in mind, there are specialized programs and treatments that have proven to be effective against ASD symptoms.

For starters, Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is among the most used intervention in treating ASD (SAMHSA, 2011). Similarly, there are dietary and medical interventions that help suppress unwanted behaviors among autistic children (NIMH, 2009). In regard to learning, there are specialized educational programs that seek to enhance the socio-communicative, cognitive and language skills of autistic students.

It can be articulated from this report that Autism is a problem that needs to be focused on. With proper understanding as to what the condition entails, parents and practitioners are better armed to assist patients overcome the weaknesses brought about by the condition and therefore achieve successful lives.

From this study, it can be authoritatively stated that early diagnosis and treatment of Autism spectrum is necessary to increase the chances of success in learning for the child suffering from this disease. Whereas Autism is not curable, it can be managed so as to ensure that it is not disruptive to the life of the individual during his/her future endeavors.

American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-IV-TR (fourth edition, text revision). Washington DC: American Psychiatric Association.

Beaudet, A. L. (2007). Autism: highly heritable but not inherited. Nat Med, 13(5): 534–6.

Freitag, C. M. (2007). The genetics of autistic disorders and its clinical relevance: a review of the literature. Mol Psychiatry. 12(1): 2–22.

Happé, F., & Ronald, A. (2008). The ‘fractionable autism triad’: a review of evidence from behavioral, genetic, cognitive and neural research. Neuropsychol Rev, 18(4): 287–304.

Korvatska, E et al. (2002). Genetic and immunologic considerations in autism. Neurobiology of Disease , 9: 107-125.

Kuder, S. (2003). Teaching Students with Language and Communication Disabilities. USA: Allyn and Bacon.

NIMH. (2009) Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders) . Web.

Rutter, M. (2005). Incidence of autism spectrum disorders: changes over time and their meaning. Acta Paediatr. 94(1): 2–15.

SAMHSA. (2011). Autism Spectrum Disorders . Web.

Tadevosyan-Leyfer, O et al. (2003). A principal components analysis of the autism diagnostic interview-revised. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 42(7): 864-872.

Tager-Flusberg, H., & Lord, C. (2005). Language and Communication in Autism. Web.

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Home — Essay Samples — Nursing & Health — Autism — Why Autism Awareness is Important

Why Autism Awareness is Important

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Students on the Spectrum

By  Elizabeth Finnegan and Margaret Finnegan

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For graduating high school seniors who are entering college this fall, it is an exciting time. Possibilities have been opened! Yet now new concerns arise: Have they chosen the right college? Will they thrive?

These are hard questions for any young adult, but for those with autism, the stakes are especially high. A 2015 Autism Speaks report found that only 30 percent of high school graduates with autism ever attend a two- or four-year college, and those that do fare poorly. Research suggests that 80 percent of them never graduate. Furthermore, only 32 percent of high school graduates with autism find paying work within two years of graduating high school. This need not be. Half of all individuals with autism have average or above-average intelligence. They can do the work. The problem is not the students. It’s the colleges.

We come to this issue from an unusual perspective. One of us, Elizabeth, studies at Pasadena City College and has autism. The other, Margaret, teaches at California State University at Los Angeles, and -- in addition to being Elizabeth’s mother -- has worked with students on and off the spectrum. Together, we have seen the many ways that colleges fail students with autism.

Federal legislation, including the Americans With Disabilities Act, mandates that colleges provide reasonable accommodations for disabled students. But common accommodations, such as providing a quiet exam setting, don’t adequately address the problems faced by many students with autism.

As autism scholars Ernst VanBergeijk, Ami Klin and Fred Volkmar note, autism is a social disability. The inherent qualities of autism -- resistance to change, sensitive sensory systems, weakness at reading social cues and a tendency to take language literally -- interfere with communication and social engagement. A quiet exam room will not help students overcome those barriers. The problems students with autism face are more insidious.

Elizabeth, for example, struggles with understanding if professors are being sarcastic or rhetorical. Uncertain, she often responds too much or too little. When one professor expressed frustration at her eager hand raising, she asked privately if he would signal her when he wasn’t being serious or didn’t require a response. “No,” he said. “I don’t need to change my teaching for you, and you need to learn sarcasm.”

It would be easy to regard Elizabeth’s experience as exceptional, the product of one unsympathetic professor. Yet research out of Australia by Ru Ying Cai and Amanda L. Richdale confirms how common such experiences are. In focus groups, autistic college students told story after story about metaphorical or abstract language leading to confusion, as well as loud, active classrooms challenging their abilities to focus on learning. For many, the frustrations became too great, leading to stress, anxiety and regrettable outcomes. However, when students felt their social needs were met -- in particular when faculty members proved willing to modify their teaching style -- students had much more positive experiences.

But American professors are not required to modify their teaching style for disabled students, and colleges are not required to think about the social, communicative needs of any students, let alone those with autism. Those things are not considered reasonable accommodations. But if autism is indeed a social disability, then denying the social needs of autistic students is inherently unreasonable.

It would help if faculty members understood how autism affects learning. But professors are busy. They juggle many demands, and professional development is often low on their to-do lists. At Margaret’s university -- which houses an outstanding center for teaching and learning development -- professional development seminars are often poorly attended, especially those focused on helping students with special needs. At one seminar on working with hearing-impaired students, Margaret was one of three instructors to show up, and if our conversations with colleagues and peers are indicative, then Margaret’s experience is a common one. Even when given the opportunity to learn more about the needs of disabled students, professors turn those choices down.

Some positive changes are underway. More than 100 colleges now offer programs for students with autism, but most of them are private, expensive, residential programs. Meanwhile, research suggests that up to 80 percent of college students with autism at one point filter through community colleges , where students, often still highly dependent on family support, can live at home. Those institutions generally offer fewer resources for students with autism. If we are to meet the needs of neurodiverse students, public community colleges will need to lead the way.

In these days when most community college disability offices are underfunded -- Elizabeth’s community college does not even provide note takers  -- meeting the needs of students with autism may seem daunting. But meaningful institutional changes do not need to strain budgets. For Elizabeth, the greatest support has often come from students who have chosen to act as social interpreters. A whispered word or two is often all she needs to better and more appropriately engage with her curriculum. Colleges like California State University at Fullerton already have mentorship programs that pair neurotypical and neuroatypical classmates.

We recommend expanding such programs so that peer mentors -- perhaps those offered the coveted privilege of priority registration -- work side by side with autistic students in the classroom. Of course, that brings us back to the privacy concerns voiced earlier. Peer mentors can only work with students who are willing to self-identify in the classroom as having autism, which is why autistic students themselves must also be involved in making campuses more responsive to their needs -- and that will only happen when students with autism bring neurodiversity into conversations about campus diversity.

Until that happens, faculty can do a lot to foster feelings of safety and inclusion for all students -- both with autism and without. Elizabeth advocates for simple kindness, acceptance and the understanding that some disabilities are invisible. In Margaret’s classes, she announces on day one that students registered with the school’s disability office should feel free to talk to her about not just the accommodations they may legally require but also about other things she can do to make her courses work for them. She shares -- with Elizabeth’s permission -- the struggles Elizabeth has faced in education, and she urges students to see her as someone who really wants to help them succeed.

Work by Nicholas Gelbar, Isaac Smith and Brian Reichow offers faculty members other suggestions for helping students on the spectrum: incorporate universal design into curriculum and assignments. As much as possible, use concrete language in both lectures and the syllabus. Break tasks down into more steps, provide greater organizational support, realize that group work, public speaking and active classrooms (such popular buzzwords in today’s curricular development) may offer particular challenges for students who struggle socially and who do not thrive in environments demanding rapid transitions. In other words, when dealing with students whose disability makes flexibility extremely difficult, faculty members must be the flexible ones. They must also take responsibility for educating themselves about neurodiversity, and if that seems too hard, they can do one last thing. They can defer to autistic students who do understand their own needs, and they can give those students the support they ask for.

One thing is undeniable: without significant changes, the traditional gateway to greater community inclusion and financial security will remain closed to people with autism. And that’s a tragedy, because those with autism have a lot to offer -- not just to our colleges, but also to our nation’s economy. We all win when everyone can compete and contribute.

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College Essay: Finding purpose through my sister

“Your sister has autism.”

I have learned that life is not all about me. I realized that I need to focus on others, especially those who are most in need, like my sister.

Those four words changed my life.

In the fall of 2015, my parents, my two sisters and I gathered around our kitchen table. My sisters looked perplexed. My mother’s lips were trembling. She struggled to say the words. After, there was silence. Salty drops were running down my cheeks. The words that my mother spoke went through me like a bullet. I still hear those words every day. Now, though, they give me purpose, whereas before they left me devastated.

During the last 18 months, my love for my 12-year-old sister Magdaleny has grown stronger and stronger. I have learned that life is not all about me. I realized that I need to focus on others, especially those who are most in need, like my sister. I knew that it was not going to be an easy task, but I was determined to support her.

Opportunity found me quickly. One day, in a public library in Bloomington, the librarian finished asking me for the personal information needed to get a library card. Then he asked my sister for the same basic information. She stayed quiet when the librarian asked her date of birth. She didn’t say a word; she panicked. That’s when I knew that I had to step in and say, “June 22, 2004.”

The librarian said, “Thank you,” and gave me a confused smile. When I looked at Magdaleny, she seemed to be embarrassed, staring at her hands and not making eye contact with the librarian or me. My heart dropped. My sister did not know what she had or how her disability affected her, but I was there to help her with her communication skills and behavior.

I’m still helping her today.

I work with her interests and talents, focusing on what she can do rather than what she can’t. Her behavior at home can be hard to handle. She often acts like a toddler, demanding to be in control. During these times, I help her understand that “no” is an OK answer, and that there is no need to be frustrated. It’s tough, but I won’t give up. I believe God meant my autistic sister to be a way for me to learn my purpose in life. I know God allowed me to open my heart and understand that my mission is to serve others.

Importantly, that mission includes the poor. When I was growing up in Mexico, there wasn’t enough money for food and housing, and certainly not enough for the medical care my sisters and I needed. My father had to leave the family and go to the United States to earn money for our care. That’s when I realized that there’s no health care if you’re poor.

These two life experiences, my sister’s autism and growing up poor, have inspired me to become a pediatrician. I want to support families, especially those with infants and those who can’t afford medical care. I want to bring hope to families in developing countries. My dreams will bring challenges, and it won’t be easy. But courage, faith and knowledge are the values that will keep me going. I have Magdaleny to thank for that.

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How Autism Changed My Life by Lakshmi

Lakshmiof Richmond's entry into Varsity Tutor's October 2013 scholarship contest

How Autism Changed My Life by Lakshmi - October 2013 Scholarship Essay

Sudden wailing rose from the bed next to me, waking me up for what seemed like the millionth time that night. It was the night before a crucial exam in my academic career, the IB Middle-Years Program Entrance Test. The next day I entered the testing center with dark circles under my eyes and resentment towards my two-year-old brother who had been waking me up for the past couple of months. Two months later, our family received some life-changing news that threw my life onto a completely different path with totally different choices. My little brother was diagnosed with autism. When I was 10, I remember feeling neglected when my parents were busy taking care of my brother. However, as I watched my brother struggle to learn basic tasks such as brushing his teeth or combing his hair, I realized he works thrice as hard as his peers to learn even basic concepts. My brother has influenced me profoundly; as I’ve grown to become the person I am today. Living with Autism, opened my eyes to the world around me, and I began to understand that different people in different situations have various problems and even more diverse strengths. Through my brother, I have learned to cherish diversity, and I have learned to treat everyone with acceptance, compassion and empathy. My brother inspired me to spread acceptance and appreciation of diversity. He motivated me to get involved in the community, leading me to start a worldwide STEM outreach project, “Growing Up in a FIRST World”, to create vocabulary videos for children with Autism and to volunteer at a Biochemistry lab to help with research involving various illnesses. Spending time with my brother has also led me to my interest in medicine; I hope I can make a difference in the lives of others, as therapists and doctors have in my brother’s life. Our house environment was very unpredictable when Pranav was first diagnosed, so I needed to develop a lot of inner control to deal with the emotions and uncertainty that came along with autism. I grew up to be a leader in this emotional turmoil and found new ways to unlock my brother’s potential. Understanding my brother’s passion for the arts, especially music, I taught my brother a few songs from “The Sound of Music,” a feat which is impressive even for a neuro-typical eight-year-old; he was only five. One thing my brother taught me very early on about leadership was the importance of seeing differences in methodology and thought processes and how accepting and cherishing these differences can deliver superior results. That ability to stay calm and be a leader in high-stress situations, along with my appreciation for creative methodologies has helped me lead our Robotics team to four awards at the Virginia Regional FIRST Competition and to two World Championships over the past three years. As I have witnessed my brother grow up struggling with the isolation and frustration that comes with autism, I’ve realized that some of the problems in my everyday life that used to seem so serious were really just simple annoyances. This realization gave me a much more balanced perspective about the gravity and lasting effects of problems in my life, allowing me to evaluate my options and choices without getting too emotional or irrational. My balanced perspective has helped me as I juggle my biochemistry research, FIRST Robotics team, IB coursework, Varsity Tennis Team, numerous other extracurricular and my family life; It has allowed me to immerse myself in all of these activities without becoming overwhelmed. During the first decade of my life, my academic focus was limited to science and math, however, my brother’s need to learn language and his passion for the arts has resulted in my multi-faceted interests in music, science, math and dance. Living with autism, has fed and cultivated my right-brain functions, allowing me to flourish as an individual and leader with both analytic and creative skills.

How I owned it: 3 college application essays

By The Understood Team

Many students (and families) wonder if it’s a good idea to disclose their learning and thinking differences in their college application essay.

Whether to disclose is a personal decision. But for these three students, all mentors with Understood founding partner Eye to Eye , it was a positive move. Here are portions of their essays, and their thoughts on how the process of writing about their differences changed how they see themselves and their challenges.

1. Brittain Peterson, senior at University of Denver

Like most people with dyslexia , I have had the inevitable moment of feeling powerless and unintelligent. But I have also had the positive moments of feeling successful and capable.

Compassionate teachers made the reward of being successful so much greater that I came to love school, while the unaccommodating teachers showed me the importance of advocating for myself. My learning difference also taught me to embrace differences in others. Because I have learned to find my own strengths in unconventional places, I have learned the importance of doing the same for others.

Currently, the most challenging part of dyslexia is overcoming the logistics: scheduling extended time for tests, arranging computer access for in-class essays, planning ahead to source books on tape when necessary. I know that I will have to navigate the logistics of college just as I have navigated the logistics of high school.

But, now it won’t be a question of whether I can do it, just of how.

“I think writing my application essay boosted my confidence. It reminded me that dyslexia didn’t define me, but that it described me. It helped me grasp the idea that my dyslexia had taught me a great deal. It also forced me to picture how I would use accommodations in college , which allowed me to picture myself in college.

My essay also helped me to choose which college to attend . I wanted college to be a place to enjoy learning and not be frustrated with it.”

2. Scott Thourson, bioengineering PhD candidate at Georgia Institute of Technology

In college, at age 19, I was diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In grade school, my intelligence was masked by my low reading comprehension. I neither fit in with the top students (I could not read) nor with the bottom students (I excelled in mathematics).

Firing spitball guns, among other mischief, was my way of protecting my self-esteem and allowing me to focus on coping with my learning differences in school.

When I was 12 years old, my mother gave me an Electronics Learning Lab. I observed that when I could apply knowledge from my electronics projects to new concepts in school, I overcame my ADHD and enhanced my academic performance.

“One of my mentors told me to always be thinking about my life as a coherent story that can explain and tie together everything I have ever done. Making lists, writing journal entries, creating mind maps, or any way of organizing thoughts and ideas can help bring that story to light.

I chose to disclose my ADHD because I was finally proud and confident in my story. I’m a very open person, so I was already comfortable with putting it out there. What made me feel good was how I put it out there. Having enough confidence in my accomplishments and coherence in my story made me feel a lot better about being me and having ADHD.

I wasn’t nervous about what the reviewers might have thought; I was excited. This was definitely a turning point in my life. It wasn’t until this point that I actually started thinking that I was smart.”

3. Carolyn Todd, sophomore at McGill University

Dyslexia is both a blessing and a curse. I struggle every day, working twice as hard as other students. I get stereotyped as stupid by people who do not understand what it means to have a learning difference. However, I refuse to give up. I have learned the importance of standing up for myself and others.

Being dyslexic makes me able to look at the world and see the amazing potential that exists in diversity. Dyslexia has given me the tools to see the beauty in difference and the passion to change the way we define intelligence.

I want to show the world what I see.

“I chose to disclose in my essay because I believe it’s important to raise awareness about different learners. I’ve noticed that topics of disabilities and mental illness are quite taboo. Not enough people take the time to become educated on what they are and can make false assumptions on how they affect someone. I thought that I could, in a small part, help the movement of trying to change this.

Disclosing in my essay felt empowering. Growing up I had learned to hide my dyslexia, and it felt good to be able to embrace the positivities associated with it and share that with others.

It changed the way I saw myself because it gave me more confidence and helped to reinforce the truth that having a disability doesn’t make you any less ‘smart’ or capable.”

Hear from six students in the Eye to Eye mentoring network on the accommodations that helped them succeed in college .

Read how self-advocacy helped a college student with dyscalculia fight for her accommodations.

Find out how another student uses dictation technology to handle college writing.

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104 Autism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Writing an essay on autism can be challenging, as there are numerous aspects to consider and various topics to explore. To help you get started, here are 104 autism essay topic ideas and examples that cover different aspects of this disorder:

• Historical Perspectives on Autism: Explore the evolution of autism research and how our understanding of the disorder has changed over time.
• Diagnostic Criteria for Autism: Discuss the diagnostic criteria used to identify individuals with autism and how they have evolved.
• Early Signs of Autism: Explore the early signs and red flags that may indicate the presence of autism in young children.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder: Explain the concept of the autism spectrum and how it encompasses a wide range of abilities and challenges.
• Social Communication Challenges in Autism: Discuss the difficulties individuals with autism face in social interactions and communication.
• Sensory Processing Issues in Autism: Explore how individuals with autism may experience sensory processing issues and how it affects their daily lives.
• Autism and Language Development: Investigate the language development challenges faced by individuals with autism and the different communication methods used.
• The Role of Genetics in Autism: Discuss the genetic factors that contribute to the development of autism and how they interact with environmental influences.
• Autism and Brain Structure: Explore the differences in brain structure and connectivity observed in individuals with autism.
• Autism and Executive Functioning: Discuss the executive functioning challenges faced by individuals with autism and how it affects their planning, organizing, and problem-solving skills.
• Autism and Theory of Mind: Investigate the theory of mind deficit commonly observed in individuals with autism and its impact on their understanding of others' thoughts and emotions.
• Autism and Mental Health: Explore the high prevalence of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, among individuals with autism.
• Autism and Co-occurring Conditions: Discuss the common co-occurring conditions associated with autism, such as ADHD, epilepsy, and intellectual disabilities.
• Autism and Gender Differences: Investigate the differences in autism prevalence, presentation, and diagnosis between males and females.
• Autism in Adulthood: Explore the challenges faced by adults with autism, including employment, relationships, and independent living.
• Autism and Education: Discuss the educational strategies and interventions that are effective in supporting individuals with autism in school settings.
• Inclusive Education for Students with Autism: Investigate the benefits and challenges of including students with autism in mainstream classrooms.
• Autism and Specialized Therapies: Explore the various therapies used to support individuals with autism, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
• Autism and Assistive Technology: Discuss how assistive technology can enhance communication, socialization, and independence for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Employment: Investigate the barriers and opportunities faced by individuals with autism in the workforce.
• Autism and Bullying: Discuss the increased vulnerability of individuals with autism to bullying and strategies to prevent and address it.
• Autism and Parenting: Explore the unique challenges and experiences of parents raising a child with autism.
• Autism and Siblings: Discuss the impact of having a sibling with autism on neurotypical siblings and the importance of support and understanding.
• Autism and Society: Investigate how society can become more inclusive and accepting of individuals with autism.
• Autism and Advocacy: Discuss the importance of advocacy and self-advocacy for individuals with autism in promoting their rights and well-being.
• Autism and Cultural Perspectives: Explore how autism is understood and treated in different cultures and the impact of cultural beliefs on individuals with autism.
• Autism and Vaccines: Investigate the controversies surrounding the alleged link between vaccines and autism and the scientific evidence debunking this myth.
• Autism and Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM): Discuss the use of CAM therapies in treating autism and the importance of evidence-based practices.
• Autism and Technology: Explore how technology, such as mobile apps and virtual reality, can be used to support individuals with autism.
• Autism and COVID-19: Discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with autism and the challenges they face during lockdowns and social distancing measures.
• Autism and Animal-Assisted Therapy: Investigate the benefits of animal-assisted therapy for individuals with autism, including emotional support and social interaction.
• Autism and Peer Relationships: Discuss the difficulties individuals with autism face in forming and maintaining friendships and strategies to promote positive peer interactions.
• Autism and Sleep Disorders: Explore the high prevalence of sleep disturbances among individuals with autism and the impact on their overall well-being.
• Autism and Aging: Discuss the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism as they transition into older adulthood.
• Autism and Stigma: Investigate the stigma attached to autism and its impact on individuals' self-esteem and social inclusion.
• Autism and Social Skills Training: Explore the effectiveness of social skills training programs in improving social interaction and communication for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Sensory-Friendly Environments: Discuss the importance of creating sensory-friendly spaces to support individuals with autism in various settings, such as schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
• Autism and Sleep Interventions: Investigate evidence-based interventions and strategies to improve sleep quality for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Music Therapy: Explore the benefits of music therapy in supporting individuals with autism, including emotional expression and social engagement.
• Autism and Art Therapy: Discuss the therapeutic benefits of art therapy for individuals with autism, including self-expression and sensory integration.
• Autism and Sports: Investigate the role of sports and physical activities in promoting social skills, physical fitness, and overall well-being for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Transition Planning: Discuss the importance of transition planning for individuals with autism as they move from school to adulthood, including vocational training, independent living, and community integration.
• Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Explore the principles and techniques of ABA and its effectiveness in improving skills and reducing challenging behaviors in individuals with autism.
• Autism and Medication: Discuss the use of medication in managing symptoms associated with autism, such as hyperactivity, anxiety, and aggression.
• Autism and Assistive Communication Devices: Investigate the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices in facilitating communication for nonverbal individuals with autism.
• Autism and Eating Disorders: Explore the increased risk of eating disorders among individuals with autism and the importance of early detection and intervention.
• Autism and Transition to College: Discuss the challenges and support services available for individuals with autism transitioning to higher education.
• Autism and Employment Accommodations: Explore the reasonable accommodations that can be provided in the workplace to support individuals with autism.
• Autism and Independent Living Skills: Discuss the importance of teaching and developing independent living skills for individuals with autism to enhance their autonomy and quality of life.
• Autism and Emotion Regulation: Investigate the difficulties individuals with autism face in regulating emotions and strategies to support emotional well-being.
• Autism and Visual Supports: Explore the use of visual supports, such as visual schedules and social stories, in promoting understanding and independence for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Executive Functioning Interventions: Discuss evidence-based interventions to improve executive functioning skills in individuals with autism.
• Autism and Transition to Adulthood: Investigate the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to adulthood for individuals with autism, including housing, employment, and social relationships.
• Autism and Specialized Schools: Explore the benefits and limitations of specialized schools for individuals with autism and inclusive education options.
• Autism and Special Interests: Discuss the role of special interests in the lives of individuals with autism and its potential benefits in skill development and well-being.
• Autism and Savant Skills: Investigate the phenomenon of savant skills observed in some individuals with autism and the theories explaining this exceptional ability.
• Autism and Executive Dysfunction: Explore the impact of executive dysfunction on daily living skills and strategies to support individuals with autism in managing tasks and responsibilities.
• Autism and Mental Health Interventions: Discuss evidence-based interventions and therapies used to address mental health issues in individuals with autism, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness.
• Autism and Employment Discrimination: Investigate the challenges and legal protections against employment discrimination for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Early Intervention: Explore the benefits of early intervention programs in promoting positive outcomes for children with autism.
• Autism and Parent Training: Discuss the importance of parent training programs in equipping parents with the necessary skills and knowledge to support their child with autism.
• Autism and Transition to Independence: Investigate the challenges and resources available for individuals with autism transitioning to independent living.
• Autism and Mental Health Stigma: Explore the stigma associated with mental health issues in individuals with autism and strategies to promote acceptance and understanding.
• Autism and Special Education Laws: Discuss the legal protections and rights of individuals with autism in the education system, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Autism and Sleep Hygiene: Investigate the importance of establishing good sleep hygiene habits for individuals with autism and strategies to promote healthy sleep patterns.
• Autism and Peer-Mediated Interventions: Explore the effectiveness of peer-mediated interventions in promoting social skills and inclusion for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Classroom Accommodations: Discuss the accommodations and modifications that can be implemented in the classroom to support students with autism.
• Autism and Mental Health Screening: Investigate the importance of early mental health screening and intervention for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Social Media: Explore the pros and cons of social media use for individuals with autism, including opportunities for connection and potential risks.
• Autism and Trauma: Discuss the increased vulnerability of individuals with autism to experiencing trauma and strategies for trauma-informed care.
• Autism and Parental Stress: Investigate the impact of raising a child with autism on parental stress levels and the importance of self-care and support.
• Autism and Executive Functioning Apps: Explore the use of mobile applications and technology to support executive functioning skills in individuals with autism.
• Autism and Employment Training Programs: Discuss vocational training and employment programs available for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Gender Identity: Investigate the experiences of individuals with autism who identify as transgender or nonbinary and the unique challenges they face.
• Autism and Mental Health Services: Explore the availability and accessibility of mental health services for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Bullying Prevention Programs: Discuss the effectiveness of bullying prevention programs in schools and communities for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Epilepsy: Investigate the relationship between autism and epilepsy, including prevalence rates and shared risk factors.
• Autism and Access to Healthcare: Explore the barriers and challenges individuals with autism face in accessing healthcare services and the importance of healthcare providers being autism-informed.
• Autism and Post-Secondary Education: Discuss the resources and support services available for individuals with autism pursuing post-secondary education.
• Autism and Sleep Training Programs: Investigate evidence-based sleep training programs specifically designed for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Mental Health Disparities: Explore the disparities in mental health services and outcomes for individuals with autism from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
• Autism and Transition to Work: Discuss the importance of supported employment programs and job coaching for individuals with autism transitioning into the workforce.
• Autism and Social Skills Groups: Explore the benefits of social skills groups in promoting social competence and peer relationships for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Physical Therapy: Discuss the role of physical therapy in addressing motor coordination difficulties and promoting physical well-being for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Mindfulness Interventions: Investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing anxiety and improving emotional regulation in individuals with autism.
• Autism and Sleep Hygiene Interventions: Explore evidence-based interventions to improve sleep hygiene and establish healthy sleep routines for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Mental Health Policy: Discuss the impact of mental health policies on the availability and quality of services for individuals with autism.
• Autism and Transition to Retirement: Investigate the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism

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Jackie Schuld Art Therapy Blog

• Feb 17, 2023

The Great List of Autistic Essays

I’m a late-identified autistic who loves writing about autism. How much do I love it? I’ve written over 150 essays on it in the past six months alone.

How do I think of so many autistic topics to write about? I’m an art therapist who specializes in late-identified autistic adults. That means I not only have my personal experience to draw from, but also the hundreds of hours spent listening to my clients.

I share most of my essays here on Medium, which means it has now become quite the library. In an effort to make my essays more accessible to those wanting clear, relatable information about late-identified autism in adults, I’ve sorted my essays into topics below. While I wish I could provide a link to each of them for you… I’ve got to prioritize my time and energy. So if a specific essay interests you, just pop it into the search and it’ll come up

Autism in a Neurotypical World

What Would a World Designed by Autistic People Be Like

The Harm in "They're a Little Autistic"

Autism Does Not Directly Cause Socializing Problems

Please Trust My Lived Autistic Experience

Can Someone Please Create a Neurodivergent Intentional Living Community

What if I Accept that Most Neurotypicals Won't Like Me

How Neuro-Bias Shows Up in Professional Testing

Your Autistic Experience Sounds Just LIke my Neurotypical One

Neurotypical Words that Don't Work for Autistics: Overachiever

But Neurotypicals Experience That, Too!

Neurotypical Norms That Don’t Work for Autistics: Hustle Goals

The Fear of Being a Hypocritical Autistic

Neurodiversity: Us vs Them?

How to Meet an Autistic Adult Exactly Where They're At

Autism Characteristics

The Autistic Mind Loves to Take Detours

4 Reasons Why Autism Symptoms Lists are Confusing

My Autistic Brain: Sunshine and Detours

The Joys of Being Autistic: Part 1

Stop Saying Autistic People Can't Empathize

Redefining Fun for Autistic Adults

9 Reasons Why Autism Looks So Similar to CPTSD

We Need More Depictions of the Interior Experience of Autism

Clarity is What my Autistic Mind Craves

How Trauma and Autism Can be a Confusing Mix to Decipher

Why am I like This? Understanding the Autistic Brain

My Autistic Mind Does What it Wants

The Dissociated Autistic Performance State

The Joys of Being Autistic: Increased Creativity and Innovation

My Autistic Memory Is Not the Same as Others

The Firehouse Dilemma: Autism and Infodumping

The Variability of the Autistic Sensory System

5 Reasons Autistics are Especially Hard on Themselves

The Shame That Often Accompanies Autism

Knowing You’re Different as an Autistic Adult

3 Reasons Autism is Worse After You Learn You're Autistic

Disability and Internalized Ableism

I Had to Dismantle My Fear of Autistic People

Is Autism a Disability?

I’m Ok With Saying I have a Disability, Right?

Dog Training

The Difficulties of Adjusting to a New Dog When You're Autistic

Tips for Adjusting to a New Dog When You're Autistic

5 Tips to Integrate a Dog into Your Autistic Life

Defining and Explaining Autism

What I Wish Others Knew About Autism

Let’s Drop the “Disorder” From Autism Spectrum Disorder

How Low and High Autism Labels are Misleading

We Need All the Autism Theories and Models

Autism Can Be a Murky Thing To Understand

How I Explain Autism to Someone Unfamiliar With It

What is Late Identified Autism

Autistic Statistics are Not Accurate for Late-Identified Autistics

I'm Here for the Autistic Awakening

How It Helps to Know You’re Autistic

Why It Matters to Know You're Neurodivergent

What is Neurodiversity and Why Does it Matter

How Neurodivergent Acceptance Can Improve Our Lived Experiences

How Unidentified Autistics are Taught to Socially Camouflage and Mask

Is There a World Where I can Be Unmasked?

The False Dichotomy of Masked and Unmasked Autism

6 Reasons Why UnMasking Is Harder Than it Sounds

What if You have to Mask Everywhere?

My Personal Experience as an Autistic

Hating Cooking as an Autistic Adult

I Make Giant Lists About Autism for Fun

The Challenges of Writing Publically About Autism

The Risk of Sharing my Autistic Passions with Others

I'm Reclaiming Weird for My Autistic Self

I Expand and Then I Contract

I Stopped Seeing Myself As Broken When I learned I was Autistic

Respecting my Limits as an Autistic Business Owner

I Need to Lessen the Pressure on my Autistic Self

My Autistic Brain Doesn’t Want to Watch TV Right Now

Embracing Who I am as an Autistic Adult

I Used to be a Very Judgemental When I Didn’t Know I was Autistic

A Letter from An Autistic Adult to Trust

Don’t Get So Upset: A Line that Doesn’t Work for This Autist

Why This Autistic Writer Didn't Respond to Your Comment

Relationships

Is Dating Worth it as an Autistic Adult?

Is it Possible to be Happily Partnered as an Autistic Adult?

Not Liking People as an Autistic Adult

Self-Identification

So You Think You Might Be Autistic

Dearly Newly Identified Autistic Person

Am I Actually Autistic?

Dearest Smart, Weird, and Caring Autistic

I Am Deeply Unsure About Autism

How to Self Identify Autism as an Adult

When the Past Makes Sense after a Late-Identification of Autism

Where to Start When You First Learn You’re Autistic

6 Strategies to Harness the Hyperfocus Power of an Autistic Mind

Leave the Gremlin In the Cave: Self-Isolation as a Necessary Autistic Tool

No Plans Days as an Autistic Tool

Making Accommodations for Myself as an Autistic Adult

How Many Accommodations Can We Ask for as Autistic Adults?

Using Art to Help Your Autistic Mind

Dissociation as an Autistic Tool

The Power of the Home Environment for Autistics

Is It Ok to Honor My Autistic Needs?

Recognizing When It's Not Time to Make Decisions as an Autistic

Therapy for Autistics

Dearest Autistic Client of Mine

8 Ways Therapy Can Help With Late Identified Autism

Gaslighting the Autistic Experience

Dearest Therapist Who Knows Barely Anything About Autism

I'm an Autistic Therapist: Sometimes It's Easier Than Everyday Life

Does Your Therapist Know Enough About Autism to Help You?

Questions to Ask a Potential Therapist When You're Autistic

How I Work with Newly Identified Autistic People

What to Ask When You're Seeking Therapy for Late-Identified Autism

12 Ways Therapy Can Enhance Life for Late Identified Autistic Adults

Therapy is Not for Fixing Autism

The Harm I Caused When I Didn't Know about Autism

A Newly Identified Autistic Therapist Working with Newly Identified Autistics

Common Therapy Advice That is Counterproductive for Autistics

A Therapist Told Me Treating Autism is Like Treating Depression

Who Can Diagnose Autism in Adults?

Autistic Adults Deserve Better from the Mental Health Field

Undiagnosed Autism

The Correlation Between Intelligence and Undiagnosed Autism

10 Consequences of a Life with Unidentified Autism

The Gap Between “Diagnosable Autism” and a Lifetime of Unidentified Autism

Autism Diagnosis Criteria are Limiting for Men Too

No Autistic Should Receive a Diagnosis Letter Like Mine

Identifying Autism in Undiagnosed Women Abstract

How I Identify Autism in Undiagnosed Women

Autistic Stereotypes Block People From Knowing They're Autistic

Thank you for reading. If you’d like to read more, sign up for my FUNletter . If you would like to explore your autistic identity with an autistic therapist, you can learn more about my therapy services here .

Recent Posts

My Autistic Sensory System is a Demanding, Bougie Princess

My Autistic Silence Does Not Mean Agreement

This Autistic is Quitting the News

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Culture Online

Should I mention my Autism in my personal statement?

It can be hard sometimes to know when and how to disclose any difficulties you may have, below we give you some guidance on what to do when applying to universities.

15 December 2021

The main purpose of the personal statement is to demonstrate to your university choices that you are a strong candidate to study the subject you’re applying for. This means that primarily you should be discussing your interest in the subject, what you have done to demonstrate that interest (such as wider reading, research, attending events, taking part in activities that relate to the subject), as well as what other qualities you possess that show you are a dedicated student, and what you have done that can demonstrate these skills.

If you feel that Autism has influenced your interest in your subject (for example, if perhaps your own diagnosis led you to an interest in psychology as an academic subject), or contributed to your study skills, then it might well be relevant to mention. However, if you just wish to inform your university choices about your Autism so they are aware of any additional support you require, then there will be plenty of time for you to declare this once you have received any offers. 

Once a university has made an offer to you, and you have accepted them as your firm or insurance choice, we recommend you get in touch with their student support or disability teams to outline what (if any) additional support you may require, and they can then work with you to ensure you have everything you need in place by the time you start studying there. 

Answered by:

Ben Lund-Conlon

Applying for university

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🟡 Autism Essays

Education of students with autism spectrum disorders.

The literature review used in this article is rich in content regarding attitudes of teachers while providing education to most of the students with disorders….

Using the TEACCH Program with ASD Students

Introduction The current paper is a detailed proposal on the way the TEACCH Program will be laid out to help the learning of the students…

How Visual Schedules Aids Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Introduction As explained by Denning and Moody (2013), research indicates that the prevalence of autistic children has increased in the past years, and it is…

Evaluating Articles on Autism Spectrum Disorder

The reason for the establishment of the National Autism Center (NAC) was to serve teenagers with Austin Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Precisely, the organization offers reliable…

Autism and Inclusion

Education is a fundamental right if every child and they are also entitled to equal opportunities in the education system. Inclusion in education ensures that…

Language Communication, and the use of Symbols in Normal and…

The article, “Language Communication, and the Use of Symbols in Normal and Autistic Children,” was authored by Ricks and Wing in the year 1975. It…

Autism and Asperger’s syndrome in terms of atypical child development

To begin with, a developing child obtains particular abilities and practices as indicated by an anticipated rate and grouping. On the other hand, no two…

Theory of mind (ToM)

Children with autism are considered socially impaired. As described by the National Autistic Society, people with autism have difficulties with social relationships, with verbal as…

Autism spectrum disorder and the mirror neuron system

Autism is a difficult disorder that many children and their parents have to go through painfully. Recent hypotheses theorized that this has something to do…

Autism and vaccines

Whereas child vaccination is still rampant, some individuals have questioned it and argued that vaccines may lead to autism. Various hypotheses have been developed to…

What is the best site to search for quality autism paper samples?

Our free Grademiners database contains premium-quality examples on this topic and many others.

How to use autism essay samples to create my own paper?

You may use our autism samples to save writing time and resources, as they contain interesting topic suggestions, credible evidence, and structuring advice.

Is it allowed to submit your samples as mine?

You can use a free essay on autism to reference your papers without plagiarizing them.

How many samples can I find here?

You can access thousands of excellent samples on different academic subjects and topics on this platform.

Writing an essay on autism spectrum disorder exposes you to the realities parents with children suffering from this mental disorder face. Thus, we provide a vast free library of related essay samples to inspire you to start on a firm foundation. Go ahead and explore the essay samples about autism and related topics our writers can offer.

Essay on Autism

A college essay about autism allows a student to explore one of the biggest challenges parents in the United States of America face. This condition affects children and their behavior because it negatively affects their brain capacity. Affected children suffer from reduced interaction and social activity due to lower communication abilities.

Autism has increased in the USA during the last three decades, raising conflicting ideas regarding its cause. Vaccine critics argue that vaccines are to blame for increased autism cases because vaccines weaken children’s immunity. Vaccine supporters dispute these allegations, saying their neuroscience and clinical studies haven’t proven them.

So, given much controversy surrounding the issue, writing an essay on ASD, especially its causes, places a writer between opposing camps. Balancing your arguments can be challenging because the proponents are medical professionals pulling from opposite sides.

Autism Essay Examples for Your Guidance  

Like any other health subject, student essays about autism expose you to a choice among different topics. Some are interesting, while others can be highly controversial. However, excellent academic writing requires you to navigate around the subject of ASD without being biased. You may not please everyone, but don’t step on everyone’s toes.

Our database contains different approaches to this sensitive area. Studying these samples carefully can help you improve your skills in three ways.

Find excellent samples to inform your writing efforts

A perfect example of the right approach to composition is the best way to succeed in your essays. Our database contains some of the best papers our team has produced. These examples help you learn how to formulate discussions on autism, psychology, communication, and other aspects surrounding ASD. You can use them to save yourself the time you would have spent writing your essays. These sources contain over 90% materials you need to compose A+ papers. You only need to tweak them to suit your individual essay prompts.

Improve your assignments’ formatting and topic selection

You need proper structuring to present your arguments smoothly. Our samples help you improve formatting to enable your audience to follow all ideas seamlessly. The essays you’ll find here can inform your structuring efforts by showing you where each argument fits best. You may also use our expert models to choose the most suitable topic for your next paper on autism. Selecting the correct title for your papers helps you narrow your thoughts to a manageable level so that you don’t digress from your topic.

Assess our writing team’s overall quality

Our team understands your need to order a custom academic paper. Thus, we displayed some of our best samples to demonstrate our quality and mastery in different niches. Example essays help you assess and foretaste what you can expect from a writer hired at Grademiners.

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Thank you for taking the time to browse our sample essays on autism. What should you do if you don’t find a sample closest to your needs? In such a case, we have you covered because you can order a custom paper about autism from our writing team. Contact us today for help.

• Alzheimer's Disease
• Anxiety Disorder
• Down Syndrome
• Eating Disorder
• ⚫ Schizophrenia

Autism - should you disclose autism in your college application?

<p>My son is really high functioning. Great in math (has tutored it all his life) Worked through echolalia but speaks perfectly now Has a 501 and an IEP. Still have visual neuro difficulty (cannot read small print and glossy paper) but that is it! He accommodate by taking picture of the book and reading on the IPad. His teachers print all hand outs/tests on large print Should I disclose his autism on the college application?</p>

<p>He has a 4.6 GPA, took all AP classes offered by the school he is ranked 1st in his graduating class His ACT is 28 (math 31) he will be retaking it after a 6 weeks prep course (fingers crossed) He is an a Eagle Scout Has a 3 year population study of the yellow billed magpie at the Mendocino National Forest following a West Nile Virus epidemic that compromised the species Works full time as camp counselor -has retrofitted all the bikes at that camp -was offered bike director position this summer. Varsity in swimming and tennis Plays the sax and is the founding member of music club -also was the teen angel at the production of Grease Played years at the community band </p>

<p>As you can see autism does not compromise his academics much. He also has a good life outside the school. Has not have had a meltdown in 2 years. And about 5 years before that. Great coping skills I’m afraid he will loses his chances if his autism is known. </p>

<p>I’m not American. My husband and I didn’t go to school here so the application process is really difficult for us. Our school has virtually no counseling. I live in a very small rural town. No autism group for high functioning </p>

<p>Any help would be greatly appreciated </p>

<p>What would you hope to gain from disclosing this autism in his application? You’re under no obligation to, and I would recommend against it, unless you have a good reason to (he wants to use it in an essay, etc).</p>

<p>I would recommend, however, that he register with the disability services office at whatever school he goes to. He won’t have to disclose his diagnosis to his professors or classmates if he doesn’t want to, but the disability services office should be able to make the print larger/allow him to zoom in on his exams or give him other accommodations that he needs.</p>

<p>Yes, he should register for disability services regarding the vision problem. Accommodation may be as simple as getting the instructors to print tests in a large enough font so that he won’t need electronics to read them (thus avoiding any possibility of being accused of cheating by using the electronics).</p>

<p>I would say no, don’t reveal. He seems very strong without needed the “explanation” regarding disability. However, do consider the approach faculty in his desired major take to his needed accommodations and have discussion with the SSD office before enrolling. Also, consider a lighter courseload in the first semester. </p>

<p>I agree with all of @dyiu13 's points. You and he may want to contact the disabilities office once he is accepted to discuss his disability and see if they need any documentation for the accommodations he will be requesting (so you have time over the summer to get any updated testing that they might require, for example). But wait until he is accepted.</p>

<p>It sounds like you are in California. I agree with the choice to not disclose on the Common App, but he may want to consider disclosing on his UC applications, because he will get an additional admissions boost for the challenge.</p>

<p>I lean towards agreeing with siloconvalleymom, although I would like to hear from people who specifically know about disabilities and the UC application. What she is saying agrees with my general knowledge of the UCs, but I don’t have that particular issue, or any experience there. </p>

<p>The OP has a reason to disclose this because her son, with pretty stellar grades and ECs received a 26 on his ACT but took it with no accommodations, and the small print issue may very well have been a reason. He will be taking the test again, but if he comes up with a high score, one question is, does he mention this in his application as the reason for the change to colleges that require all test scores? </p>

<p>I think the OP is looking for advice from anyone who knows about this issue.</p>

<p>It may well be that they should pick and choose the schools though, as @siliconvalleymom suggests.</p>

<p>Your son should speak with his guidance counselor, as the GC will probably mention his disability in his Secondary School Report (SSR), especially as he has achieved such success in school. Ditto with his teachers in their recommendation letters. If your son’s GC and teachers mention it, your son might not need to. Then again, it also might be a good topic for an essay: <a href=“ Part 1: Answers to Your Questions on Applying With a Learning Disability - The New York Times ”> http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/07/marybeth-one/&lt;/a&gt ;

<p>Yes, it’s true that most colleges consider the impact of a disability for applicants. Probably should approach it on a case by case basis if possible (given Common App). Having the GC explain is a great method.</p>

<p>Also see: <a href=“ Not to Disclose Learning Issues Can Be a Set Up for Disappointment in College Admissions | HuffPost College ”> HuffPost - Breaking News, U.S. and World News | HuffPost ;

Asperger's Syndrome

A sample scholarship essay from someone with asperger's syndrome.

As you deliberate your way through mounds of scholarship essays, searching for the individual most deserving of your award, my essay may serve as an atypical, perhaps eye-opening, application: I am not the most well-rounded individual. Please don’t discount me until I’ve had a chance to explain.

I have Asperger’s syndrome. Predominately, for me, this means I am hyper-focused on one aspect of learning and give little care to other things. My friends play soccer, volunteer once a week, and play an instrument flawlessly. Me? I study medicine. I read a copious volume of medical literature, from personal memoirs to the Medical Encyclopedia, to the Drug Guide and everything in between.

I am the least coordinated gym student, most musically illiterate band student, but I excel in my area of passion for which I’m coming to your university to study.

One night a few weeks ago, as I exited a convenience store, I noticed a man “sleeping” on a chair outside a coffee shop. My brain instantly thought, “His chest isn’t rising and falling.” Most people would not be in tune to noticing if a supposedly sleeping man’s chest was rising and falling. I knew what to do. My extensive first aid training and medical knowledge kicked in. I sent someone to get an AED. I checked for pupil dilation, pulse, signs of respiration, and levels of consciousness. The paramedics were 20 minutes away, and I had to keep the man alive, which I did successfully because of my knowledge in handling emergencies. My Asperger’s may have saved a life.

I live each day to help others. I volunteer in the emergency department sitting with lonely people; I raise money for the local children’s hospital, The Parkinson’s Society, and the local homeless shelter. My passion is to see people thrive, and I desire to be a doctor so I can be a catalyst in helping others achieve wellness.

I also have chronic anxiety and clinical depression. These lifelong battles have made me an empath, able to resonate with others on a deep level. I believe this trait makes me an asset to your institution. Who better to care for the sick than the person who knows what it’s like, not just from medical jargon in a textbook but on an actual personal level?

My soul craves human connections and real relationships, both of which are harder for me to accomplish because of my social disconnect. I don’t need easy, I need possible. I don’t allow my diagnoses to define me or limit me. Know that every morning I wake up fighting for deep, meaningful relations with those around me. Know that I fight through cracks, crevices, and disconnects in my brain’s neurons to pursue life. I will likely be your school’s strongest mental health advocate, disability warrior, and social justice fighter because those issues are where my whole heart lies.

So maybe I’m not the best-rounded applicant you have. Maybe I haven’t tapped into every opportunity that’s ever been in my reach, mainly because it didn’t interest me. Maybe I don’t have flowery reference letters from 100 different faculties.

Passion, sometimes, isn’t scriptable on a transcript or a resume.

Honestly, I won’t involve myself in every society and club your campus offers. I don’t waste my time pursuing opportunities that bore me just to say “I did it.” Know that what I do involve myself in, I will invest my whole heart in, including my studies.

My name is Lola, and I have Asperger’s syndrome.

My name is Lola, and I will be the most passionate medical student you’ve seen in a long time.

And that is why I believe I am deserving of your scholarship.

We want to hear your story. Become a Mighty contributor  here .

Thinkstock photo by PongsakornJun

POTS / living my best life / advocate