Autism diagnosis rates tripled in less than two decades. What does that mean for schools?
My opinion:
Same as ADHD: over-diagnosis by mental health professionals!
"The increase in diagnoses coincides with a worsening shortage of special education teachers and staff."
Fair enough, but in no way causal - it doesn't at all answer why the rates are so high. They wouldn't need the dwindling special-ed resources if they weren't already diagnosed. "Lack of special-ed" may worsen autism's effects and make it more difficult on all parties, but it doesn't "cause" autism.
"What’s more, many parents during the coronavirus pandemic were unable to get their children a diagnosis or services, which could have long-term consequences."
Again, fair. But wouldn't this mean the #s should have gone DOWN?!
As you can see I'm having trouble making sense of the final two paragraphs.
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