A Teacher’s Influence

Over 60 years ago, Hans Asperger stated that: “these children often show a surprising sensitivity to the personality of the teacher. However difficult they are, even under optimal conditions, they can be guided and taught but only by those who give them understanding and genuine affection, people who show kindness to them and yes, humor. The teacher’s underlying emotional attitude influences, invo…luntarily and unconsciously, the mood and behavior of the child…Mere teaching efficiency is not enough.” (Asperger [1944] 1991, p.48)