Long attempt to ban shocks, because autism treatment is confronted with uncertainty

It is unclear what most residents who wear the devices think of the treatment. Many, including Mr. Green and Mr. Hinton, don’t speak, or they communicate with just a few words and short sentences. The center would not allow the times to interview someone who carries the shock devices during a visit at the end of last year.

In 2022, however, researchers from the Association for Behavior analysis spoke with four patients who received shocks. Three said they didn’t want it, of whom a begged to be removed, according to their report. Although a patient wanted the treatment, the organization rejected it, making the group one of the last of its kind to do this.

In addition to a greater shift in the understanding of society of neurological developmental disorders, the protest has come. There has been a growing consciousness that efforts to ‘correct’ behavior that are considered undesirable to traumatize people. A movement led by autistic adults and clinicians argues instead for a better understanding of society and more support for speech therapy and other treatments.

Mrs. Msumba, the former resident of Rotenberg Center who was wearing the device, calls himself proof that alternatives can work. Her new treatment facility, she told the legislators in 2023, gave her time to understand and cope with her disorders, and has prescribed medicines that had refused her in Rotenberg.

As a result, she said, “I now have a real life.”

Glenda Crookes, the Chief Executive of the Rotenberg Center, said many things were changing After Dr. Israel had left In 2011 as part of a deal with state officials who investigate an incident When the devices were applied incorrectly.

Changes include an extension of other forms of treatment, said Mrs. Crookes. But the facility continues to work for the values ​​of Dr. Israel, she added, including the shock devices. “Our priority was and has always been to ensure that the treatment continues.”