AUTISM AWARENESS-RAISING
A Half-day Workshop
July 21, 2011
Bala Mandir, Chennai

About Autism

Autism is a complex neuro-developmental disorder that manifests in children by the age of three years.

• It has a debilitating effect in the areas of communication, socialization, cognition, imagination and intuitive thought, and it severely inhibits a child’s repertoire of interests and social interaction.
• The degree may vary from mild to very severe and is hence it is known as Autism Spectrum Disorder. At the lower end it is known as Classic Autism and at the upper end it is called Asperger Syndrome.

There has been a marked increase in the incidence of autism over the past few decades. It is estimated that there are 40 lakh individuals in India using the prevalence figures of 1/250.

Statistics show that boys are affected more than girls and the ratio is four males to one female though the reason for this is still unknown.

Autism was initially considered as mental retardation requiring institutional care. However, concerted efforts by researchers, medical professionals, persons with autism and their families have led to a better understanding of the condition. Medical and therapeutic interventions help relieve the pain and suffering of autism and improve the quality of life of people with autism.

There is always something new to learn in this field, and MNC believes that it is important to keep abreast with new developments. With this in view, the Centre organised a half-day workshop in Chennai on July 21, 2011, on the theme “Autism Awareness”. Renowned educational psychologists Dr. Janet Muscutt and Prof. Peter Farrell of the UK shared their rich experience with the 60 participants including special educators, academicians, researchers and parents of children with autism.

The sessions were highly interactive and involved role play, question-answer sessions and sharing of experience.

Read further about the Sessions 1 and Sessions 2