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Hussman Institute for AutismHussman Institute for Autism
Hussman Institute for Autism
Advancing Discovery. Embracing Differences. Enabling Communication. Presuming Ability.
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Our Principles & Core Values

“Autism awareness can’t stop with a list of what makes people with autism different from us. Because what is essential is the constant awareness of what makes us the same.”

Communication as a Centerpiece

The ability to communicate should not be confused with ability or complexity of thought, particularly for non-verbal children, but also for children whose language may be limited to requests and objections. Communication is not simply a behavior-reduction strategy. It is a central human need.

Presumption of Competence

“Just because someone doesn’t speak doesn’t mean they have nothing to say” – autism often interferes with communication and initiation, and masks the competence of those on the spectrum.

Strength-based, Positive Supports

Too often autism seems to result in a loss of equal treatment and an over-emphasis on differences and weaknesses.

Evidence-based Approaches

The maze of intriguing but unproven approaches in autism can be overwhelming to parents, while many approaches that are well-grounded in research remain underused, or lack the resources required for broad implementation.

Naturalistic Settings & Methods

Not only are these the most ethical approaches toward individuals with autism, but evidence indicates that positive, inclusive, naturalistic learning approaches significantly increase motivation and learning.

Inclusion in schools & communities as a priority connected to all other supports

It can be short-sighted to pursue communication supports, behavior supports, and sensory supports without addressing the social aspects of autism and the need for connections and community. Issues of belonging, friendship, and quality-of-life should be valued and addressed alongside other goals.

Recognition & appreciation of differences in sensory processing, movement, & subjective anxiety

Certain methods may be successful in compelling desired behavior, but may not be humane or comfortable for the person with autism. It is essential to understand the need that certain symptoms may address, and to find adaptations that meet those needs – simply repressing them may produce unexpected new behaviors.

Partnership & advisory input from individuals with autism to inform research & design supports

Too often, individuals on the autism spectrum are studied, assessed and supported without their cooperation, participation, or input. People with autism can contribute important perspective, and reveal areas of need that might not be apparent.

"In the end, the best argument for inclusion is the simplest. It’s the one we know by heart – that all of us are created equal.”

  • “The soul must be loved as it is.”

    Jamie Burke
  • “Autism awareness can’t stop with a list of what makes people with autism different from us. Because what is essential is the constant awareness of what makes us the same.”

    John P. Hussman, Ph.D., Director
  • “And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”

    The Little Prince

    Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • “We agree with the view that presuming competence is the least dangerous assumption.”

    John P. Hussman, Ph.D., Director
  • “Autism is not disability.”

    Jamie Burke
  • “We are just like you, with the same desires, and just need help to be typical members of society.”

    Sue Rubin
  • “In the end, the best argument for inclusion is the simplest. It’s the one we know by heart – that all of us are created equal.”

    John P. Hussman, Ph.D., Director
Subscribe & Stay Informed
Recent Activity:
  • Autism Kit for First Responders
    April 21, 2022
  • Supporting Students with Special Needs: Online Training Modules for School-Based Professionals who Support Students with Disabilities
    April 16, 2019
  • Parental optimism, school inclusion may affect long-term progress of individuals with autism
    April 12, 2016
  • Young adults with autism increase empathic communication with training
    March 24, 2016
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Administration & Program on Autism Supports
Hussman Institute for Autism
6021 University Blvd, Ste 490
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Phone 443-860-2580 | Email info@hussmanautism.org

Research Laboratories
Hussman Institute for Autism
1011 Sunnybrook Road, Ninth Floor
Miami, FL 33136
(3 blocks from the Hussman Institute for Human Genomics)
Phone 443-860-2580 | Email info@hussmanautism.org

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