Let's consider: Read Chapter 13, pages 394-408 in preparation for this week's discussion. Have you seen the movie Temple Grandin? Dr. Grandin's story is a fascinating and inspiring one. She is now a successful adult who has lived with autism all of her life and who grew up in an era when little was known about how to "treat" the disorder or help educate the learner.
You may want to view this week's movie moment about Temple Grandin in preparation for this discussion question. There are two videos there. One is a full lecture; the other is a shorter interview. There is also a recent movie, now available on DVD that has been made with actress Claire Danes playing the role of Temple. I highly recommend the movie especially if you have a child with a learning disability.
Let's discuss: In your initial post, consider and answer these questions: How does rambunctious behavior in a child differ from behavior seen in a child with ADHD of the combined type? Are any symptoms of ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, or conduct disorder perhaps "normal" for kids? What about discipline? Would you punish a misbehaving child who has a developmental disorder such as Asperger's or autism the same as you would as a "normal" functioning child with misbehavior? Dr. Grandin talks about the kind of discipline she received as a child in her talks. What do you think?