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Understanding autism: parents and pediatricians in historical perspective

Chloe Silverman1, Jeffrey P Brosco

  • 1Department of Science, Technology, and Society, Penn State University, University Park, Pa 16802, USA. cbs14@psu.edu

Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|April 4, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Parents and advocates have significantly shaped autism research and treatment over 50 years by funding studies, building networks, and driving scientific understanding. Their active involvement is crucial for future progress in autism care.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric medicine
  • Autism spectrum disorder research
  • Medical sociology

Background:

  • Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often possess deep knowledge of scientific issues.
  • Parental expertise and the pursuit of a cure can sometimes create tension with medical teams.
  • This study examines the historical contributions of parents and advocates in autism research and treatment.

Observation:

  • Parents and advocacy groups have been instrumental over the past 50 years.
  • Their contributions include organizing research funding and establishing clinical research networks.
  • They have also suggested novel research directions and promoted evidence-based therapies.

Findings:

  • Parental involvement has influenced the trajectory of autism research.
  • Advocacy groups have played a key role in popularizing empirically supported treatments.
  • Parents and advocates have anticipated major shifts in the understanding of autism.

Implications:

  • Recognizing families as valuable partners in understanding complex conditions like ASD is essential.
  • Future research and treatment programs for autism should prioritize collaborative partnerships with families.
  • This historical perspective highlights the indispensable role of families in advancing autism science and care.

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