消息及活動

We are pleased to collaborate with the Faculty of Education and Human Development to organize the Distinguished Visiting Professors lecture, featuring Prof. Susan Bögels from the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Amsterdam. The seminar, which attracted over 110 participants, centered around the topic “Living Mindfully with ADHD and Autism.”

During the lecture, Prof. Susan Bögels discussed how autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are neurodevelopmental conditions often caused by minimal brain dysfunction. She explained that individuals with autism and ADHD are particularly susceptible to sensory overload, attention problems, and high levels of stress, especially in today's fast-paced urban environment. Those living with individuals with autism or ADHD, such as partners, parents, or children, may also experience significant stress due to the shared or absorbed stress.

Prof. Bögels emphasized the mindfulness in regulating sensory overload, attention, and both intrapersonal and interpersonal stress. She suggested that acceptance and meditation can help manage stress in children with ADHD.

Additionally, Prof. Bögels engaged in a discussion with our department colleagues, enriching our understanding and sparking meaningful conversations on the impact of gender on neurodiversity and how to combine practice with research. She highlighted several key points on the insights of autism individuals and gender identity with the challenges in practice research:

• Sense of Ownership: Children and adults with autism often exhibit a weaker sense of ownership and possessiveness.
• Mind-Body Connection: Individuals with autism may experience a looser connection between mind and body, leading to a less integrated sense of self.
• Cultural and Social Influences: The perception of autism varies across cultures, with some indigenous cultures promoting acceptance by viewing autism as being "in your own time and space."
• Empathy and Social Interaction: Contrary to common beliefs, studies show that autistic individuals may demonstrate higher levels of empathy in certain social contexts.
• Gender Fluidity and Identity: Autism can influence gender identity and self-perception, with some individuals expressing different needs regarding gender identity.
• Challenges in Practice Research: Prof. Bögels advocated for diverse research methodologies, including quasi-experimental designs and qualitative analysis, to gain valuable insights.