New Paradigms in Autism with Dr. Elizabeth Torres
The David Kaufer Podcast: The Lighter Side of the Spectrum
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (mcdn.podbean.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
The guest is Dr. Elizabeth Torres, Professor at Rutgers University and Director of the Sensory Motor Integration Lab. She discusses revolutionary perspectives on autism, viewing it through sensory motor differences rather than behavioral deficits. Dr. Torres shares her journey from applied mathematics to challenging conventional autism therapies, focusing on the limitations and failures of ABA therapy. She also covers the importance of biological rhythms in understanding autism and her initiatives to leverage technology for better autism care. This episode also touches on the divisive nature of the autism therapy community and highlights the need for a unified approach in advancing effective treatment methods.
Topics
00:54 Meet Dr. Elizabeth Torres
02:10 Dr. Torres' Journey into Autism Research
06:33 Challenges and Innovations in Autism Research
14:03 Critique of Behavioral Models and ABA
23:30 Autism Fact or Fiction: Epidemic Discussion
27:52 Understanding Autism Diagnosis Trends
30:28 The Impact of Broader Diagnostic Criteria
32:28 Challenges in Autism Services and Oversight
35:21 The Industrial Complex of Autism Services
38:51 The Importance of Unified Efforts in Autism Advocacy
44:12 Tip of the Week: Supporting Non-Speaking Individuals
44:59 Innovative Use of Technology for Autism Support
48:05 Research Findings on Bio Rhythms in Autism
56:46 Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning