Różne sposoby definiowania autyzmu : przegląd stanowisk

Abstract

Autism is an ambiguous, vague concept. In medical nomenclature, its semantic scope has already changed several times. The article presents the ways in which this concept appears in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. The common feature of these definitions is a reductionist approach to the patient and thinking in terms of a disease or disorder (ASD – Autism Spectrum Disorder). Nowadays, there are also other views of autism whose validity is sought by social actors/ interest groups outside the medical establishment. In the public opinion, the association of autism with the puzzle or the blue color popularized by the Autism Speaks foundation is strongly rooted. Moreover, in media events, popular science and scientific publications, including therapeutic literature, the term Autism Spectrum Condition appears. It is important to show the dispute over the definition of autism because the arguments of each side have implications for health.