Mainstream schools can leave pupils with autism feeling different and vulnerable to low self-esteem and mental health problems, say researchers.
The University of Surrey researchers say the way pupils with autism interact with peers plays a “particularly powerful role”.
Dr Emma Williams: negative experiences in mainstream education can leave pupils with autism vulnerable to mental health problems
Experiences with peers shape feelings of self-worth, the review study found.
It suggests many pupils with autism can internalise the negative attitudes of others towards them.
Feeling ‘different’ and more limited in mainstream
Along with unfavourable comparisons to classmates it can lead to a sense of being isolated, or ‘different’, and more limited than peers.
The researchers analysed 17 previous studies.
The findings appear to question the inclusion agenda that has been the dominant educational philosophy for special needs pupils over the past two decades or so.
However, lead author Dr Emma Williams insisted the researchers are not saying mainstream education is bad for pupils with autism. She said that it can help with social and academic skills.
Cultivating a culture of acceptance
Williams added: “Rather, we are suggesting that by cultivating a culture of acceptance of all and making small changes, such as creating non-distracting places to socialise, and listening to their pupils’ needs, schools can help these pupils think and feel more positively about themselves.”
The physical environment can impact children’s ability to interact, say the researchers.
Sensory sensitivity, which can magnify sounds intolerably, may lead to noises such as shrieks and chatter making pupils anxious.
Unable to concentrate and socialise
This leaves them unable to concentrate and socialise, further increasing isolation.
Williams says it is crucial that the more than 100,000 autistic children in the UK leave school feeling accepted, loved and valued, rather than with additional mental health issues.
The findings were published in the journal Autism.
Autism Eye approached the Department for Education for a comment, but it did not respond.
Related:
- Mum tells MPs that schools fail girls
- MPs back call to cut school exclusions
- Schools failing children with autism
Published: 26 November 2017
