On Thursday, May 1, 2014, Pacifica Institute Orange County branch and SARAH (Spiritual And Religious Alliance for Hope) organized a panel discussion on The Challenges of Parenting Children with Disabilities. The speakers included author, Dr. Ronald Leaf, and Professor Sophia Pandya. Dr. Leaf is currently a Psychologist with Autism Partnership and has over 40 years of experience in Autism. Dr. Pandya is Professor of Religious Studies, with California State University of Long Beach and Author.
Dr. Ronald Leaf expressed how glad the month of April was over as April is Autism month. He stated that there is so much misinformation on Autism in April that it disappoints him and all the challenges parents face. There is no knowing cause of Autism although there are over 100 speculations from environment to diet to genetics. Unfortunately there is no prevention; however, with early intervention and the right treatment, the child can progress to his or her potential. Dr. Leaf practices behavioral analysis by breaking the skills into small portions teaching one sub skill at a time until mastery. Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 34 children, significantly higher than other conditions affecting children. Boys are affected by autism and Attention Deficit Disorder at a much higher rate than girls. Due to massive media attention there is a greater awareness of ASD among parents and professionals. Parents should always do their own research.
Dr. Sophia Pandya, shared a tender and very personal story of her son M. M was diagnosed when he was 19 years old. He was addicted to everything he can get his hands on, had panic attacks, hallucinations, saw people and heard voices that were not present and didn’t tell his mother. Dr. Pandya found out that diagnosing mental illness is very difficult just like with any other children disorders. She had to take her son to many doctors, psychologists, the emergency room and went back home many times before finding out her sons’ condition. California does not have hospitals or centers for the mental ill and that is why many are homeless. Parents are very lonely and are in very difficult situation. She recommends that the families need support, and visiting and listening from friends and family are very helpful. This can’t be dealt alone and families should always reach out for help.
Pacifica Institute thanks Dr. Ronald Leaf and Dr. Sophia Pandya for sharing their expertise and personal stories with the guests.