Publisher Investigating Psychology Textbook

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The publisher of an A-level psychology textbook has been criticised for its description of autism.

Pearson’s revision guide for the subject states that children who have “tantrums” due to changes in their routine might be autistic.

The book states that autistic children: “do not demonstrate imaginative or pretend play” and “will continually repeat the same pretend play”.

It continues by adding that autistic children “like to stick to the same routine, and little changes may trigger tantrums, or may engage in repetitive activity such as opening and closing doors, or lining things up".

The National Autistic Society called the description "misleading" and has urged the publisher to change the book.

Tom Purser, head of campaigns at the National Autistic Society said: “It’s really disappointing to see this misleading phrase in an A-level textbook, and no doubt deeply concerning to many autistic students and parents. We urge the publishers to correct this as soon as possible."

Mr Purser went on to explain why conflating a meltdown with a tantrum is so misleading.

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

"It happens when someone becomes completely overwhelmed by what’s happening that they temporarily lose control of their behaviour – and may shout, scream or lash out. 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.