Autism, which has emerged as an Autism spectrum disorder in recent years, is a complex neuro-developmental disorder that is congenital or emerges in the first years of life. It is thought to be caused by some nervous system problems that affect the structure or functions of the brain. In particular, the individual's sensory problems come to the fore and reduce his/her harmony with the environment. It may have balance-related problems, as well as a wide range of different symptoms such as lifelong sensitivity to loud sounds, touch sensitivity, sensitivity to light.
What is it not?
It is not a disease, is the difference. It is a neuro-developmental disorder that cannot be diagnosed and whose symptoms can be minimized with education.
It is not contagious. It has been proven by scientific studies that it cannot emerge through parental attitudes.
Are individuals with autism affected by negative events in their environment?
As with every living thing, they need to defend themselves and meet their basic needs. They have basic needs such as the motivation to survive and the desire to learn. Just because these individuals have difficulty expressing their emotions does not mean that they are not affected by negative situations. Yes, they are primarily affected by negative behaviors and approaches, and they show this through their behavior (stereotypical movements).
How right or wrong is it to include autistic individuals in inclusive education?
The Turkish version, which was recently broadcast on a private channel, is a good example of the point that individuals with autism can reach when they receive education.
Based on the saying "There is not a single individual to be sacrificed in education", as Ataturk said, these individuals The right to education is a Constitutional right. Moreover, moderately and mildly affected individuals on the autism spectrum are included in education as inclusive students.
What is the emotional structure of families with individuals with autism?
These families of ours experience a collapse the moment they receive the diagnosis. They first go through denial, then anger, then acceptance phases. Each stage is overcome in itself, with environmental support, or families that lack this become withdrawn, or they struggle to achieve this goal as a result of very difficult struggles. They transcend stages.
What is the perspective of non-autistic individuals towards autistic individuals?
The term "awareness", which is a pleasing but questionable modern expression in our society in recent years, We all started to recognize autism. However, there is a situation where these individuals are visually "aware", but we cannot say the same emotionally and socially. Since we do not know these individuals well enough in our society, we sometimes feel pity, sometimes fear, and sometimes anxiety. We still treat individuals with autism as "lepers" outside.
Are there any achievements made by individuals with autism?
In literature reviews, it is known that many geniuses (mathematicians, physicists, musicians and painters) are autistic.
It is seen that they achieve serious success with correct guidance, correct and early diagnosis, and correct education.
Can empathy be established with autistic individuals and their families?
Autistic individuals A positive environment can be created when they show sensitivity. Their families can be supported emotionally and socially.
Are the teachers in schools sufficient about autism?
Although special education teachers and PDRs are trained in the universities of our country, our staff is still insufficient. Teachers and parents should be informed about this issue by increasing the number of in-service seminars at school.
Which units directly concern such problems?
Ministry of Family and Social Policies, especially the Ministry of National Education and It also directly concerns our Ministry of Health. If these ministries act with a coordinated common consciousness and inform the society in this direction, the problem will be solved to some extent.
How sensitive are we as a society about the recent Aksaray incident?
This incident has shown that we are very sensitive about this issue, with the contribution of social media.
A common consciousness and a desire to act together have emerged in the society. However, unfortunately, our sensitivity has only been heard in the visual part of the term "awareness". Serious and urgent steps need to be taken to solve the problem.
Read: 0