TEDx - Ami Klin: a new way to diagnose autism.

http://www.ted.com/talks/ami_klin_a_new_way_to_diagnose_autism.html

An interesting talk. I found some of it a little uncomfortable, but the message of the last 3 minutes or so is clear and concise - this is not a matter of 'curing' autism. Even early screening, diagnosis and intervention will not and should not necessarily do that. This is a matter of intervening early and making a change in children's lives, so that autistic individuals can grow up without such profound disabilities and isolation in certain areas. It's a controversial issue, because how much being autistic is a part of who you are is rightly contested - however if breakthroughs that Dr Klin is really only hinting at here could make a difference for the well-being and social engagement of individuals, then they are breakthroughs that are urgently needed. As he rightly pointed out, while autism currently has huge societal costs, autistic individuals can also give a great deal back - not only in their unique way of looking in the world - but in jobs and work we all expect of 'neurotypical' members of society. In a predictable and defined environment, as Dr Klin points out, they can be efficient and studious workers. Breakthroughs are needed so caregivers can begin helping children before they even reach those telling 'symptoms' that appear around the second year of age and can progress to engaged and happy members of the community.