List date(s) this work was published or aired.
Nov. 27, 2011
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
Story explored the situation of a mother who had been court ordered to follow a treatment plan that she disagreed with for her autistic son. Revealed issues related to medical evidence versus legal standards.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
Used court records available publicly. No FOI required.
Explain types of human sources used.
Extensive use of experts in family law and evidence-based treatments for autism.
Results:
Good reader reaction, particularly from special needs community.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
None.
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Don’t be afraid to ask stupid questions. There is so much controversy about autism treatments and causes that I had to ask very basic things to ascertain who believed what.