Autism Spectrum Disorder: Cross-cultural Perspectives

Introduction
This paper discusses the controversies on autism spectrum disorder being a cross-cultural condition. As a basis for this analysis is a “Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008.” The etiological perspectives on autism, the cultural aspects of certain behaviors and cross-cultural perspectives autism are discussed.
My particular interest in autism spectrum disorder and its multicultural aspect derives from working with students with autism. Having encountered the bill “Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008” while academic research, I got excited and interested in finding the evidence of autism being a global condition and therefore proof of the true need in assistance offered by the U.S. government. Through the literature review, I try to understand if the “Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008” will be a helpful aid for developing countries or the need for assistance offered is overestimated.

Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008
The Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008 directly identifies the autism spectrum disorder problem worldwide and addresses the involvement in supporting the developing countries concerning this issue in particular.
The bill is aimed to enhance health care and education related to autism spectrum disorder in developing countries. It starts with the overview of the 5 essential findings on the autism spectrum disorder issues. The bill continues with the description of the global autism assistance program, including information on the establishment and purpose of the program; designation and eligible regions; time frame for implementation of particular activities; as well as description of 4 main areas to be supported to receive the grant (education and outreach to the public, support to families, support to educational institutions, and support to clinics and medical centers).…