Racial disparties in autism treatment

The need for professional care of African-American children with autism can go unmet. Some of the disparity could stem from cultural differences in parental perceptions of behavior, says autism expert Margaret C. Souders, PhD, RN, assistant professor of human genetics at Penn Nursing.

"Families respond to behavioral challenges and quirky manners in many different ways," explains Dr. Souders in an article about health disparities in Penn Nursing's UPfront magazine. "Some families may not seek help from the healthcare system but rather reach out to extended family for ideas on how to handle their children."

As an expert in autism, Dr. Souders is available to comment on:
* Racial disparties in autism treatment
* Preparing children with autism to handle household emergencies, such as fire
* Insomnia in individuals with autism.