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Newswise — The need for professional care of African-American children with autism can go unmet. Some of the disparity could stem from cultural differences in parental perceptions of behavior, says autism expert Margaret C. Souders, PhD, RN, assistant professor of human genetics at Penn Nursing.

"Families respond to behavioral challenges and quirky manners in many different ways," explains Dr. Souders in an article about health disparities in Penn Nursing's UPfront magazine. "Some families may not seek help from the healthcare system but rather reach out to extended family for ideas on how to handle their children."

As an expert in autism, Dr. Souders is available to comment on:* Racial disparties in autism treatment* Preparing children with autism to handle household emergencies, such as fire* Insomnia in individuals with autism.

Penn Nursing is home to internationally renowned research on autism spectrum disorder and a unique certificate program on nursing care for patients with autism.

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing is one of the premier research institutions in nursing, producing new knowledge in geriatrics, pediatrics, oncology, quality-of-life choices, and other areas. Researchers here consistently receive more research funding from the National Institutes of Health than any other private nursing school, and many Master’s programs are ranked first in the country.