91ÌÒÉ«

Social responsibility of the 91ÌÒÉ«: knowledge, sensitivity, reliability

Today, we are observing World Autism Awareness Day – a time that especially reminds us of one of the 91ÌÒÉ«'s key values: respect for every person. We believe that every person contributes something important to the community and diversity strengthens us. It is also an opportunity to emphasise our responsibility to promote reliable knowledge and research. That's why we encourage you to read the press interview and listen to the podcast with Dr Krystyna Pomorska, a specialist in contemporary behavioural and developmental psychology:

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In both conversations, the expert explains in what autism spectrum disorder actually is, what therapy can offer and why we should be cautious about "miracle methods" that promise the impossible.

Autism – not a disease, but a neurodevelopmental difference

Dr Krystyna Pomorska underlines that autism is not a disease that can be "cured". However, development can be effectively supported, important skills taught and difficulties mitigated. "Neurodevelopmental disorders (...) stem from the development of the nervous system. And it's not as if we can completely change that – she explains. The conversation features many practical explanations, including the apt metaphor of an "operating system", which helps understand how neurodevelopmental differences work.

Diagnosis, therapy and emotions

She also discusses how to recognise disorders, the difference between a difference and a diagnosis, and why it's not the quantity of sessions that counts in therapy, but their meaning and coherence. "Diagnosis is a process that requires time, specialized knowledge, and attentiveness" – says Dr Pomorska, adding: "It's important to remember that the autism spectrum affects a very broad and diverse group of people. This includes both people with intellectual disabilities and those within the intellectual norm or functioning above the norm (...). This is not a homogeneous group." She highlights the role of parents, who, as she notes, often go through an emotionally difficult "therapeutic fever". The interview also touches on the dangerous area of alleged "alternative methods of treating autism".
 

"Science Inspires" podcast – knowledge instead of myths

The "Science Inspires" channel, features a podcast in which Dr Pomorska expands on these themes. She discusses, among other things, how to distinguish reliable knowledge from myths, why autism should be viewed as a "different operating system" and the importance of early communication support – including through the use of AAC.

Technology and relationships – why is it so important?

A crucial part of the conversation concerns phones and screens. Dr Pomorska points out that children learn relationships through real contact with another person – through facial expressions, facial tone and shared attention. If a screen becomes a substitute for this relationship, it limits the opportunity to practice key social skills. The problem isn't limited to children on the spectrum. Neurotypical children can also miss out on important experiences when a phone replaces a parent's presence or peer contact. Technology can be an addition, but it shouldn't become a replacement for connection.

Reliable information instead of simplifications

Both discussions serve as a reminder that autism is still surrounded by many simplifications. This makes substantive conversations based on knowledge, not fear or sensational promises, all the more necessary. We should remember that the best support begins with understanding others, not searching for miracle cures. For those interested in delving deeper into the topic, Dr Krystyna Pomorska has prepared a set of publications:

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The next part of the series, presenting ways to minimise the effects of coercion in children with ASD in the context of medical care, will be published soon.

 

Source: Dr Krystyna Pomorska, Michał Gruda, Gazeta Wyborcza
Edit: Agata Dawidowicz, Centre for External Relations and Social Responsibility of the University, 91ÌÒÉ«