Assignment Task: Review the video:
YouTube Video: 2 Hour Autism Documentary | Life On The Spectrum | Real Families
Steven's Story (Maray Alexander's Family)
- What were the early signs that Steven was developing differently after his illness at age 2?
- How did Steven's behaviors change over time, and what were some of the safety concerns his family experienced?
- How did the mental health system respond to Steven's crisis, and why was the family told "we don't do autism"?
- What were the ethical and emotional challenges Steven's parents faced when he was sectioned under the Mental Health Act?
- After moving to supported living, what strategies helped Steven reduce his anxiety and begin to thrive again? Need Assignment Help?
Wendy & Elliot
- What does Wendy mean when she says "New Zealand has gone backward" in terms of autism services?
- How does Wendy prepare for Elliot's visits, and what does that say about the planning required for families of older autistic children?
- What warning does Wendy give about the current state of family crisis support?
Kim & Her Sons (Jacob, Jackson, and Jaram)
- What day-to-day strategies does Kim use to manage sensory needs and meltdowns for her sons?
- How does the family structure its home environment to prevent conflict or overstimulation?
- What are Kim's long-term fears, and how does the PATH planning process help her prepare for the future?
- How does Kim's role as a solo parent of three autistic children impact her own personal goals and mental health?
Katie & Sue Robertson
- How did Katie transition into supported independent living, and what supports made it successful?
- What does Sue say about how parents can "get their life back" after years of full-time caregiving?
The Scruff Family (Liam, Sophie, Harry, Connor, and Rachel)
- How does Rachel describe autism as both a strength and a challenge within her family?
- What individualized supports helped Sophie and Harry succeed socially and academically?
- How does Liam describe the difficulties of interpreting emotions and navigating relationships?
- How does Rachel balance the needs of her three autistic children while ensuring Connor doesn't feel excluded?
Hunter & His Mom
- How did Hunter and his mom adapt their lives to run an Airbnb and creative studio despite his social and visual limitations?
- What does Hunter's story tell us about independence, employment anxiety, and the role of a supportive caregiver as a young autistic adult transitions to adulthood?