Textbook makes autistic people 'sound like toddlers'

The bullet point appears alongside other "key autism symptoms" on page 182 of the textbook.

A publisher has said it will conduct an "immediate review" into an A Level textbook accused of being "deeply offensive to autistic people".

Pearson's A Level Psychology Revision Guide says children who have "tantrums" due to routine changes may be autistic.

The National Autistic Society called it "misleading" and has urged the publisher to correct the book.

It said: "A meltdown is not a tantrum. It is an intense response to an overwhelming situation."

The revision guide, aimed at but not approved by the AQA exam board, says some autistic children "like to stick to the same routine, and little changes may trigger tantrums".

George, who studies Psychology, says the book "makes us sound like toddlers."

But George, who is autistic and studying A level psychology says: "It makes us sound like toddlers."

He says: "If that's how they describe meltdowns what other inaccuracies are there going to be? Calling it 'tantrum' feels condescending."

His concerns are echoed by Tom Purser, Head of Campaigns at the National Autistic Society.

He said: "It's really disappointing to see this misleading phrase in an A-level textbook."

Mr Purser says a meltdown happens when "someone becomes completely overwhelmed" by a situation and they temporarily lose control of their behaviour - "they may shout, scream or lash out".

He says: "To call it a 'tantrum' suggests that this reaction is naughty, over the top or even intentional, which is simply not true and deeply offensive to autistic people and their families."

In a statement, Pearson said it was investigating the matter "urgently".

"We are committed to ensuring our products are held to the highest standards and will be consulting with an independent expert to help us conduct an immediate review."