PENN Autism Network Conference: Journeys Through Adolescence and Adulthood

For individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), transitioning from adolescence to adulthood presents many challenging issues. In addition to the usual stresses of adolescence, young adults with ASD need help dealing with social skills, sexuality, and, at times, extreme anxiety that may result from tension and confusion. Adults with ASD face communication and social problems that can affect employment, personal relationships, and the other skills needed to live an independent life. These challenges affect not only the individual, but also their parents, siblings, and other friends and family members. As children with ASD transition into adulthood, those who care for them are often left asking, "what now?"

Hosted by the University of Pennsylvania Health System, the Second Annual PENN Autism Network Conference presents a unique opportunity to focus on promoting systems of supports and services for adolescents and adults with ASD, including the issues surrounding the transition into adulthood.

WHERE: Houston Hall
University of Pennsylvania [map]
3417 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

WHEN: Research Perspectives in Autism
Hosted by Penn and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)
March 15, 2007
8:30 a.m. " 6:30 p.m.

Discussion topics include

• Language, emotion, and social behaviors
• Do you have a good candidate gene for autism?
• Brain connectivity, sleep, and activity

Journeys Through Adolescence and Adulthood
March 15, 2007
8 " 9:30 p.m.
Jerry and Mary Newport " internationally recognized advocates, authors, and savants " present, "You Don't Have to be 'Normal' to be Happy"

March 16, 2007
8 a.m. " 4:30 p.m.

Over 20 breakout sessions are offered. Topics include:

• Treatment of Adults with ASD
• Relationships Through an Autistic Lifespan
• Strategies for Coping with Social Danger
• Autism & Sexuality: To Teach or not to Teach and the Potential Consequences of Doing Nothing

WHO: Research Perspectives in Autism (selected presenters)

• Maja Bucan, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Genetics and Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Department of Psychiatry, Penn
• Susan Levy, MD, Developmental Pediatrician, Medical Director, Regional Autism Center, (CHOP)
• David Mandell, ScD, Assistant Professor, Psychiatry & Pediatrics, Penn
• Sarah Spence, MD, PhD, Staff Clinician, Pediatrics and Developmental Neuropsychiatry Branch, National Institute of Mental Health

Journeys Through Adolescence and Adulthood (selected presenters)

• Mary Riggs Cohen, PhD, Clinical Associate Professor in the Adult Social Learning Disorders Program, Department of Psychiatry, Penn
• Peter F. Gerhardt, EdD, President of the Organization for Autism Research
• Anthony Rostain, MD, Associate Professor, Psychiatry & Pediatrics, and Medical Director, Adult Social Learning Disorders Program, Penn
• Jean Ruttenberg, Executive Director of The Center for Autism
• Self-Advocates, parents, and siblings speaking about personal experiences