High Functioning Autism

In yet another shocking American Idol elimination episode, James Durbin was prematurely voted off tonight, despite being one of the most consistent performers of the season. This is the second time this year that voting results have…

Lately, there's been much conflicting news about autism rates. A recent study from Britain contends that there is no epidemic, there's just a great many undiagnosed adults walking around. Yet after conducting a study in South Korea, The…

In what may have been the best performance of the season from any American Idol contestant, James Durbin performed "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow," from Carole King and once again stood head-and-shoulders above the rest of…

Asperger's Syndrome (or Asperger Syndrome or AS) is a form of high functioning autism, characterized by obsessive interests and a difficulty in making friends. While commonly characterized as a “mild” form of autism, it is devastating in…

Week after week, American Idol contestants are challenged by judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler to step it up and take chances. James Durbin did just that this week, with a cover of Muse's "Uprising." Along…

Known for his aggressive and upbeat rock performances, James Durbin shifted gears Wednesday night on American Idol, performing "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" by George Harrison of The Beatles. The song was chosen as part of Rock…

A persistent and pervasive problem within school systems is the conflating of conduct disorder with autism. Research has shown that while individuals with conduct disorder have problems with social interaction and the perceptions of others,…

Lately, I've been addressing the many hard and scary aspects of autism, in particular, safety issues at school and in the community. I now feel the need to shift my attention. It's easy to see the world of autism through a…

Last week, the Science Channel (a division of Discovery) aired an episode of "Ingenious Minds" and took a closer look at the life and mind of John E. Robison. The show gave a fascinating glimpse into Robison's trials and…

In a tense moment Thursday evening on live television, James Durbin was placed on stage in front of millions of viewers, pitted against his Hollywood roommate, Stefano Langone, for a spot in American Idol's "Top 13." Host Ryan…