Autistic Adults: Exploring the Forgotten End of the Spectrum by Smeenk, Danielle

Most of the research and writing about autism is focused on children, even though most autistic people alive today are adults. With the compassion that comes from lived experience, Daniel Smeenk provides a comprehensive yet accessible look at the forgotten end of the spectrum: autistic adults. He takes an evenhanded approach to the current debates such as how funding should be spent and what kind of supports are most beneficial. The book is divided into two parts. Part I looks at how autistic adults present and how their needs are distinct from children. Smeenk offers suggestions for supportive ways neurotypicals can interact with autistic people. Part II addresses broader societal concerns such as employment, lack of research on autistic adults, issues with public perception and how autistic adults see themselves. Unlike most books on autism, Autistic Adults: Exploring the Forgotten End of the Spectrum explores the subject from multiple points of view. With great sensitivity, Daniel Smeenk, examines autism research, self-advocacy communities and the fundamental differences between the groups that want to help autistic people but disagree on how to do so. By providing information and advice, Smeenk aims to inspire neurotypicals to a greater empathy and understanding of the autistic adults in their lives.