Here’s how Durkin describes what she will present in this webinar:

Autism and intellectual disability are two of the most common forms of neurodevelopmental disability in childhood, and both have effects throughout the lifespan. In recent decades, the prevalence of both conditions — as well as their co-occurrence — has changed markedly, with autism rising in frequency and intellectual disability showing some evidence of decline. In this webinar, I will review the historical and current definitions of autism and intellectual disability as well as their contrasting epidemiological characteristics.

I will consider various explanations for, along with the implications of, the rise in the prevalence of autism. I will also discuss the concurrent decline in intellectual disability, both in the general population and among children with autism. Autism researchers and advocates can learn lessons from research and advocacy in the field of intellectual disability. For instance, modern concepts of disability have relevance to our understanding of autism. These lessons can inform the ultimate goals of autism epidemiology, which include not only limiting or preventing disability, but also promoting social inclusion for individuals on the spectrum and improving their quality of life.

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