Make Me Normal

Autistic Teenagers Speak Out

Produced by Channel 4

Roxanne appears to be a typical teenage girl who is into music and clothes but she is unable to make friends because her autism leads to inappropriate behavior. Moneer, a 12-year-old boy with Asperger’s Syndrome, is smart and outgoing but is prone to violent behavior. Roy is compulsive about the labels on his video collection and is easily thrown by change. Esther is a loner. All four are pupils at the Spa School in England, a state school for pupils with autism.

These compelling profiles capture the frustration of young people who are aware of their disability but cannot overcome it. The patience and sensitivity of the professional staff is directed at helping the young people interact better with the outside world. This film is an important resource for people working with the autistic.

40 min. Video or DVD. Sale $295. Video rental $75.

Western Psychological Association 2007