Michelle Dawson

Autistic Pride Flag

Michelle Dawson is a Canadian autism researcher and advocate. She is known for her work in challenging conventional views on autism and advocating for the rights and capabilities of autistic individuals.

Early Life and Education

Michelle Dawson was born in Canada. Details about her early life and education are not widely documented. However, her contributions to autism research and advocacy have made her a prominent figure in the field.

Career

Michelle Dawson began her career as a postal worker for Canada Post. Her interest in autism research was sparked by her own experiences as an autistic individual. She has since become a vocal advocate for the rights of autistic people and has contributed significantly to the field of autism research.

Advocacy and Research

Dawson is best known for her critical stance on the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, which is commonly used for autistic children. She argues that ABA can be harmful and that it often fails to respect the rights and dignity of autistic individuals. Her work has been influential in promoting a more respectful and ethical approach to autism treatment and research.

She has also been involved in legal cases advocating for the rights of autistic individuals. One notable case is her involvement in the Auton v. British Columbia case, where she argued against the provincial government's decision to not fund ABA therapy.

Publications and Contributions

Michelle Dawson has published numerous articles and papers on autism. Her work often focuses on the capabilities and strengths of autistic individuals, challenging the deficit-based models that are commonly used in autism research.

Recognition and Impact

Dawson's work has had a significant impact on the field of autism research and advocacy. She has been recognized for her efforts to promote the rights and capabilities of autistic individuals and has been a keynote speaker at various conferences and events.

See Also

• Autism
• Autism rights movement
• Neurodiversity
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Auton v. British Columbia