What Is Autism? History and Foundations

Abstract

Increasing rates of autism have changed the face of child psychology, education, and family life. Clinicians and educators, in general education and special education alike, are challenged like never before to identify and treat children with autism. Autism assessment, school psychology, and forensic psychology fields are rapidly expanding to address critical issues in the ASD population. As children on the Autism Spectrum mature to adulthood, the community college and university system, as well as employment programs and adult service providers, encounter a new level of need for this expanding population. Although assessment and treatment technologies have advanced substantially over the past decade, there are a myriad of unanswered questions about the potential for people with ASD to function in school and the workplace, have families, and live fulfilling lives. Psychologists, scientists, and doctors feel a deep sense of urgency to find answers to these provoking questions that plague our time. This passion is ever increased through the continued deepening understanding of individuals with ASD who are often endearing, talented, intriguing and may see the world in a new way; offering us a window into the brain and to the breadth of human experience. In this chapter, the reader is invited to explore the meaning of the term “autism,” the history since its early foundations as “Kanner’s autism,” and the currently increasing prevalence estimates.