Eric Schopler, 79; Had Key Role in Study and Treatment of Autism
Eric Schopler, 79, a University of North Carolina psychologist who recognized that autism was a brain disorder and developed effective ways to treat it, died Friday of cancer at his home near Mebane, N.C.
“He influenced tens of thousands of people,” said Catherine Lord, a prominent University of Michigan psychologist who worked with Schopler early in his career.
He co-founded a program 41 years ago rejecting the notion that autism -- a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome -- was caused by destructive parents. Instead, Schopler recognized autism as a brain disorder that could be managed.
Schopler, who attended the University of Chicago, observed that people living with autism were capable of learning but did not learn in traditional ways. He found that customized interventions from therapists, family and teachers made learning possible.
His insights led to the development of a network of North Carolina state-funded clinics that are still operating. The clinics have inspired autism therapy programs throughout the world.
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