The 2nd Autism Symposium was held in Samsun under the theme “Applied Behavior Analysis: From Theory to Practice” within the scope of the 2nd National Autism Action Plan.

Organized by the Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Developmental Education Application and Research Center, the symposium brought together academics and educators to raise awareness about autism, promote knowledge sharing, and strengthen solution-oriented policies. The event took place at the Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Multi-Purpose Hall with the cooperation of the Samsun Governorship, Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, and the Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services.

The symposium was attended by Deputy Governor Canan Hançer Baştürk, OMU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten, Head of Disability Services Branch at the Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Department of Health and Social Services Atilla Genç, as well as academics.

Babillioğlu: “Our goal is not only to raise awareness but to strengthen social acceptance”

Deputy Provincial Director of Family and Social Services Müslim Selçuk Babillioğlu stated in his speech that autism is not a deficiency but a different developmental journey.

Emphasizing that this difference should not only be recognized but also supported through scientific methods to ensure the full and active participation of individuals with autism in social life, Babillioğlu said:

“Applied behavior analysis, which forms the main focus of our symposium, is a globally recognized, effective, and scientific approach to supporting the development of individuals with autism. Our goal is not only to raise awareness but to strengthen social acceptance, promote a culture of living together, and enable individuals with autism to say ‘I am here too’ in every aspect of life.”

Highlighting that comprehensive efforts are being carried out to support the care, rehabilitation, and social participation of individuals with disabilities, Babillioğlu added:

“We must not forget that with the right support and love, every child can reach their own peak. Because every child is special, every child is valuable.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emrah Gülboy: “One in every 100 children has autism spectrum disorder”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emrah Gülboy, Director of the OMU Developmental Education Application and Research Center, stated that autism is one of the fastest-increasing types of developmental conditions and noted that, according to World Health Organization data, one in every 100 children has autism spectrum disorder.

Explaining that the symposium was organized to draw attention to this condition, Gülboy said:

“The full term for autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder known as autism spectrum disorder. Some individuals are severely affected and require continuous support and education, while others are affected to a lesser degree and are considered high-functioning. Therefore, the spectrum is very broad.”

Expert presentations delivered

Following the speeches, expert presentations were delivered:

• Prof. Dr. Elif Tekin İftar on “Applied Behavior Analysis: Definition, Concepts, and Scientific Foundations”
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Derya Genç Tosun on “Increasing Appropriate Behaviors and Instruction for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder”
• Prof. Dr. Seray Olçay on “Reducing Behavioral Problems in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder”

The symposium concluded with the presentation of plaques to participants and a commemorative photo session.