Autism From Within - a Handbook

Ever since her fourth child was born, Hilde de Clercq has been involved with autism. She decided to dedicate herself entirely to try to understand the essence of the stigma.

Hilde dared to explore and analyse the different behaviour of her son. She found an approach through language and the attribution of meaning, where she, as a linguist, could observe the pervasiveness of this developmental difference. The extreme attention to detail and the effects of hyperselectivity were explored in her first book. This time Hildegoes further and explores, in depth, the qualitative differences of autism in everyday life. This book is a practical guide as well as a reflection on pragmatic language issues.

One could say that there are indeed two cultures, one autistic and another non-autistic. This book builds bridges between two perspectives on reality. It is intended for students, professionals and parents, but could very well be read by anyone interested to know more about the autistic syndrome.

The author's frequent references to the writings of autistic people themselves will open the reader's eyes to the 'world of autism' and provide a philosophical and educational framework.