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Reviewed by: Nicole Elliott, M.A., Shana Nichols, Ph.D., Laurie Perlis, PsyD, Samara Pulver Tetenbaum, M.A. and Adriane Kruer-Zerhusen, members of the Fay J. Linder Center psychology graduate training program.
The Asperger’s Difference is an engaging and educational DVD that is designed to help teens and young adults with Asperger’s better understand their diagnosis. This 30-minute DVD presents information from the point of view of three young people with Asperger’s who are articulate, down-to-earth, at times funny, and easy to relate to. Through their personal experiences, the three young “stars” of the DVD discuss the challenges and positive aspects of having Asperger’s, as well as issues related to receiving a diagnosis, disclosure, and self-advocacy. The DVD includes a companion guide that provides thoughtful discussion questions which encourage viewers with Asperger’s to go beyond the content of the video and explore their own experiences, feelings, challenges, and strengths related to their diagnosis. Also included in the companion guide is a streamlined list of resources, including books and websites, which may be helpful to viewers seeking further information.
Divided into a series of chapters, The Asperger’s Difference presents topics in an organized and concise way. A narrator introduces each chapter by giving a general, objective overview of the topic, followed by the three “stars” sharing their own personal anecdotes, feelings, and thoughts. The unique combination of strengths, difficulties, perspectives, and experiences of each of the three individuals are highlighted through the course of the video.
The Asperger’s Difference may be best suited for diagnosed teens and young adults who already have some basic knowledge about Asperger’s Syndrome. It is also an excellent resource for families, peers, professionals, and teachers who want to learn more about the disorder from the perspective of diagnosed teens/young adults. While the video realistically presents serious challenges young people with Asperger’s face, there is a clear emphasis on strengths and the potential for growth and improvement over time. Effective services, including counseling, and successful strategies for overcoming some common difficulties associated with Asperger’s are also included briefly in the video. From the candid point of view of three young people with Asperger’s, the video mixes more lighthearted observations with a realistic, yet hopeful portrayal of the difficulties associated with Asperger’s Syndrome.
Of the many videos we have reviewed during the last few years with popcorn in hand, The Aspergers Difference ranks among the small number of “must sees”.
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