Abstract

Olga Bogdashina argues persuasively that, contrary to popular belief, spirituality plays a vital role in the lives of many people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Drawing on interdisciplinary research from fields as diverse as psychology, philosophy, anthropology, linguistics, neuroscience and religion, as well as first-hand experiences of people on the spectrum, she shows how people with ASD experience their inner worlds and sense of self, and how this shapes the spiritual dimension of their lives and vice versa. She presents a coherent framework for understanding the routes of spiritual development and 'spiritual giftedness' within this group, offering insights that will inform understanding of how to support and nurture spiritual wellbeing in people with ASDs.

This book gives a voice to both verbal and non-verbal individuals on the autism spectrum whose spiritual experiences, though often unconventional, are meaningful and profound. It is essential reading for all those interested in the spiritual wellbeing of this group, including pastoral carers and counsellors, ministers of religion, spiritual leaders, parents and carers and individuals on the autism spectrum.

The book is not about the spirituality of individual autistic persons but rather Olga Bogdashina is daring to try to chart a way through big and contested subjects... Indeed what is Autism like and how might what we learn of autistic understanding and experience shed light on spirituality more generally?
from the foreword by Christine Trevitt, Emeritus Professor, Cardiff University
A powerful guide recommended for any spirituality collection and for any dealing with autism and its larger religious ramifications.
Midwest Book Review
Olga Bogdashina, MA, PhD, is Co-founder and Programme Leader and Lecturer at the International Autism Institute, KSPU. She has worked extensively in the field of autism as a teacher, lecturer and researcher. Since 1994, she has been Director of the first day centre for children with autism in Ukraine and President of the Autism Society of Ukraine. She is a visiting lecturer at universities in Europe, presents at national and international autism conferences and is an Autism Consultant for services for children and adults. She is the author of Autism and the Edges of the Known World, Sensory Perceptual Issues in Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Communication Issues in Autism and Asperger Syndrome and Theory of Mind and the Triad of Perspectives on Autism and Asperger Syndrome, all published by JKP. Olga has a 25-year-old son with autism and lives in West Yorkshire, UK.