Does a Narrower Autism Diagnosis Gap for Black Children Mean Better Access to Supports?

A commentary by Danai Fannin, PhD, an Associate Professor at North Carolina Central University, and colleagues, “Unpacking the Prevalence: A Warning Against Overstating the Recently Narrowed Gap for Black Autistic Youth,” was published in Autism Research. The article explores whether the data showing a narrowed gap in autism diagnosis for Black children compared to white children will translate to better access to supports and services. Dr. Fannin is a member of the Duke ACE Community Engagement Advisory Board.

Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome Can Cause Challenges for Children With ADHD+Autism

Associate Professor Kim Carpenter, PhD, and colleagues published “Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (CDS) in Young Autistic Children, Children with ADHD, and Autistic Children with ADHD” in the Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology. This condition is a group of behaviors marked by mind-wandering and sluggish movement, causing social difficulty and impacting daily activities. In this study, Duke autism researchers found that the mind-wandering aspects of cognitive disengagement syndrome are most common among autistic children who also have ADHD, compared to neurotypical children, autistic children, or children with ADHD.

Dr. Geraldine Dawson on JAMA Pediatrics Podcast

In a recent podcast episode, JAMA Pediatrics editors discussed interventions and outcomes for young autistic children with Geraldine Dawson, PhD, Founding Director of the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development. Listen here.

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Partnership with Durham County Library Brings Dr. Temple Grandin to Durham

“We’re going to need different kinds of thinkers,” Temple Grandin, PhD, a distinguished professor of animal sciences at Colorado State University, said in a powerful talk. The renowned professor of animal sciences spoke from her expertise in animal behavior and her own experience as an autistic person to draw unexpected parallels. Read more.

Dr. Temple Grandin speaks to about 250 attendees in Duke's Gross Hall Auditorium.

A Memorable Morning at the 2024 Baseball Bonanza

Duke Baseball players spent time making connections with about 50 kids and their families at our 3rd annual Baseball Bonanza. The children enjoyed running, throwing, catching, and batting during a fun-filled day with the ACC Baseball Champions. Read more.

A Duke baseball player sits with a child on the field.

Carolina Theatre Announces Season 2 of the Sensory-Friendly Film Series

We’re excited to continue our partnership with the Carolina Theatre of Durham to show a series of family movies in a sensory-friendly setting.

The return of these free family matinee screenings kicks off with “Trolls” on Saturday, August 24.

Visit the Carolina Theatre’s website for the entire fall schedule. Duke Autism Center staff consulted with the theatre on sensory-friendly accommodations.

2024-25 Autism Seminar Series

The Duke Autism Seminar Series will return in September. This series features a range of accomplished speakers presenting their current research and perspectives on autism.

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Duke Clinic Team Wins START Network Partner Award in Children’s Services

The Duke Multi-Modal Evaluation (MME) clinic team was awarded the Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources and Treatment (START) Award in Children’s Services. This award recognizes a START partner for their significant contribution to improving the system of support for children who experience intellectual and developmental disability and mental health needs. Read more.

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