Autistic Woman Sue Facilitated Communication: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Facilitated communication (FC) is a controversial communication method developed in the 1980s. It involves a facilitator assisting an individual who has difficulty speaking or writing to communicate by supporting their hand or other body parts. Sue Rubin is an autistic woman who became a prominent advocate for FC after allegedly learning to communicate through the method. However, the validity of FC has been widely disputed, and Sue's case has been the subject of considerable skepticism and debate.

Historical Context of Facilitated Communication

In the early 1980s, Rosemary Crossley, an Australian speech therapist, developed FC as a way to help children with severe language impairments. The method gained popularity in the United States in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when several autistic individuals began using FC to communicate complex thoughts and ideas.

Sue Rubin's Experience with Facilitated Communication

In 1989, Sue Rubin, a 27-year-old autistic woman, began using FC with the assistance of her facilitator, Cheryl Schaeber. Sue claimed to have been nonverbal before using FC and subsequently produced a series of books and articles written through the method.

Controversies Surrounding Facilitated Communication

The validity of FC has been the subject of considerable debate and controversy. Critics argue that the method is unreliable and that individuals using FC are not actually communicating their own thoughts, but rather those of their facilitator.

Research Findings

Numerous research studies have failed to provide convincing evidence to support the validity of FC. For example, a 1994 study published in the journal "Developmental Psychology" found that individuals using FC were not able to communicate accurately without the assistance of their facilitator.

Skepticism and Allegations of Fraud

Skeptics of FC have also raised concerns about the possibility of fraud and suggestion. They argue that facilitators may be consciously or unconsciously guiding the movements of individuals using FC.

Current Status of Facilitated Communication

Despite the controversies, FC continues to be used by some individuals with communication difficulties. However, it is important to approach FC with caution and to carefully consider the evidence before embracing it as a valid communication method.

Implications for the Autistic Community

The controversy surrounding FC has had a significant impact on the autistic community. It has raised concerns about the validity of other alternative communication methods and has contributed to a lack of trust in professionals who support autistic individuals.

Ethical Considerations

The use of FC raises important ethical considerations. It is essential to ensure that individuals using FC are fully informed of the potential risks and benefits of the method and that they have the opportunity to make informed decisions about its use.

Tips and Tricks for Facilitated Communication

If you are considering using FC, it is important to approach it with caution and to follow these tips:

• Seek out a qualified facilitator with experience working with autistic individuals.
• Start by using FC in a low-pressure environment.
• Be patient and allow the individual time to communicate.
• Do not assume that the individual is communicating their own thoughts.
• If you have any concerns or suspicions, discontinue the use of FC.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using FC, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can compromise its validity:

• Guiding the individual's hand or other body parts.
• Suggesting or prompting words or ideas.
• Assuming that the individual is communicating their own thoughts without verification.

Step-by-Step Approach to Facilitated Communication

Here is a step-by-step approach to using FC:

1. Establish a relationship with the individual. Get to know the person and their communication needs.
2. Find a comfortable and safe environment. Choose a place where the individual feels relaxed and free from distractions.
3. Start by using simple communication. Begin with basic words and phrases that the individual is likely to be familiar with.
4. Be patient and supportive. Give the individual time to communicate and do not rush them.
5. Pay attention to non-verbal cues. Observe the individual's body language and facial expressions for clues about what they are trying to communicate.

FAQs

Q: What is facilitated communication?
A: FC is a communication method that involves a facilitator assisting an individual who has difficulty speaking or writing to communicate by supporting their hand or other body parts.

Q: Is facilitated communication valid?
A: The validity of FC is controversial, with research studies failing to provide convincing evidence to support it.

Q: Who is Sue Rubin?
A: Sue Rubin is an autistic woman who became a prominent advocate for FC after allegedly learning to communicate through the method.

Q: What are the ethical considerations of using facilitated communication?
A: It is essential to ensure that individuals using FC are fully informed of the potential risks and benefits of the method and that they have the opportunity to make informed decisions about its use.

Tables

Table 1: Controversies Surrounding Facilitated Communication

Table 2: Tips for Facilitating Communication

Table 3: Common Mistakes to Avoid in Facilitated Communication

Conclusion

Facilitated communication remains a controversial and debated method of communication. While some individuals using FC have claimed to unlock their potential for expression, the validity of the method has been questioned by research and skeptics. It is important to approach FC with caution and to consider the ethical implications of its use.