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Autistic characters

10 Autistic Characters in Fiction: Why Representation Matters

Autistic characters are finally starting to take their place in the stories we watch, read, and love. For far too long, individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were left out of the narrative, or shown through inaccurate, one-dimensional portrayals. But in recent years, more creators have taken steps toward honest, respectful representation of the neurodiverse community.

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Autism in teens

Autism in Teens: Identifying the Signs and Navigating the Teenage Years

Adolescence is already a time of rapid change and self-discovery, but for some teenagers, it’s also the period when a long-overlooked neurodevelopmental condition finally comes into focus. Autism in teens is increasingly recognized, not because it begins during the teenage years, but because the demands of adolescence often unmask traits that were previously hidden, misunderstood, or misattributed.

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Why Is Autism Increasing? Insights from the Latest CDC Autism Data (2025)

Why Is Autism Increasing? Insights from the Latest CDC Autism Data (2025)

Why is autism on the rise? Does it indicate a growing public health concern, or does it reflect advancements in our understanding and recognition of autism? This blog by ABA Centers of Virginia examines these questions by analyzing the CDC’s latest data, identifying factors contributing to the rise in autism statistics, and considering the implications for parents, educators, and society.

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Books for children with autism

Books for Children with Autism: Stories That Reflect, Inspire, and Connect

There’s something heartwarming about a child seeing themselves in the pages of a book, something affirming, comforting, and even life-changing. For families navigating autism, finding those moments of connection can feel especially powerful. Books for children with autism are more than just bedtime stories or educational resources; they’re bridges to understanding, tools for self-discovery, and pathways to emotional growth.

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Y-BOCS Scale: Understanding the Intersection of OCD and Autism

Y-BOCS Scale: Understanding the Intersection of OCD and Autism

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are two distinct conditions that can sometimes share overlapping traits. These criteria can make receiving an accurate diagnosis for OCD and ASD complicated for various reasons.
Furthermore, treating these conditions can be challenging due to the overlap that can occur.

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Visual Supports for Autism: 5 Practical Tips to Empower Your Loved One’s Communication!

Visual Supports for Autism: 5 Practical Tips to Empower Your Loved One’s Communication!

What are examples of visual supports for autism? In this ABA Centers of Virginia blog, we will explore visual supports for autism in depth. We will provide you with a clear guide to picture communication for autism, the benefits of these tools, and practical tips for you to apply at home or in the classroom.

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Justice Jackson: Resilience and Hope in Raising ASD Children

Justice Jackson: Resilience and Hope in Raising ASD Children

The story of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson inspires hope in families navigating life with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As the first Black woman appointed to the Supreme Court, Justice Jackson’s trailblazing legal career is remarkable on its own. However, her openness about raising a daughter on the autism spectrum sheds even more light on the challenges many families in these types of circumstances face.

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Behavioral Therapy vs. ABA Care: Choosing the Right Therapy

Behavioral Therapy vs. ABA Care: Choosing the Right Therapy

When supporting children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), parents, educators, and therapists are often faced with various therapeutic options. Each approach aims to help clients manage their behaviors in different ways. Two common types of therapy are behavioral therapy and applied behavior analysis, which is also known as ABA therapy.

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