Publisher investigating A-Level textbook accused of making autistic people 'sound like toddlers'

Textbook says children who have ‘tantrums’ due to routine changes may be autistic

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The publisher of an A-level psychology textbook has been criticised for its description of autism.

Pearson’s revision guide for the subject states that children who have “tantrums” due to changes in their routine might be autistic.

The book states that autistic children: “do not demonstrate imaginative or pretend play” and “will continually repeat the same pretend play”.

It continues by adding that autistic children “like to stick to the same routine, and little changes may trigger tantrums, or may engage in repetitive activity such as opening and closing doors, or lining things up".

The National Autistic Society called the description "misleading" and has urged the publisher to change the book.

Tom Purser, head of campaigns at the National Autistic Society said: “It’s really disappointing to see this misleading phrase in an A-level textbook, and no doubt deeply concerning to many autistic students and parents. We urge the publishers to correct this as soon as possible."

Pearson’s has responded by confirming to The Independent that it is investigating the matter.

“We’ve been made aware of concerns about a phrase used in a Pearson A Level Psychology Revision Guide and are investigating the matter urgently," a spokesperson for the publisher said in a statement. 

"We are committed to ensuring our products are held to the highest standards and will be consulting with an independent expert to help us conduct an immediate review.”  

Mr Purser went on to explain why conflating a meltdown with a tantrum is so misleading.

“A meltdown is not a tantrum. It is an intense response to an overwhelming situation," he said. 

"It happens when someone becomes completely overwhelmed by what’s happening that they temporarily lose control of their behaviour – and may shout, scream or lash out. To call it a ‘tantrum’ suggests that this reaction is naughty, over the top or even intentional, which is simply not true and deeply offensive to autistic people and their families.

“Almost everyone is now aware of autism. But few people understand what it’s actually like to be autistic - both the unique strengths and how hard life can be if you struggle to communicate or feel intense anxiety in social situations. Stereotypes and misconceptions are still all common and autistic children, adults and their families routinely report being judged, stared at or even mocked."

Mr Purser went on to stress the urgency of changing people’s perceptions of autism.  

“We must all do everything we can to change society, so that the hundreds of thousands of autistic people in the UK - and their families - feel understood, supported and part of their communities, schools and workplaces," he said. 

"This starts with better understanding of autism and educators should be at the forefront of this, ensuring future autism professionals have accurate knowledge of what autism is. Everyone can find out more about autism and do their bit to help create a society that works for autistic people, visit autism.org.uk.”