First blog...this is a lot like LiveJournal. I like it!
For the semester-long inquiry, I'll be questioning the linkage between vaccines and autism. A high school teacher I had influenced me to choose this topic, because her son was diagnosed with autism shortly after he recieved some kind of vaccination (I don't remember for what), and that scared the crap out of me.
People should DEFINITELY care about this topic, because there is so much controversy surrounding it. Are doctors giving us shots filled with substances (mercury) that could potentially cause more harm than help? My mom is all-about whatever the doctor says, and my dad thinks some vaccines are just unneccesary. Everyone stands in a different position regarding this topic, and I like that.
In my research, I expect to find a lot of contradicting statements. I have a feeling doctors will be endorsing the continuation of vaccinations, and people who have loved ones suffering from autism will likely tell how they believe their lives were changed by a shot the doctor administered.
I have not conducted enough research to give you a definite standing point on how I feel about this topic, but I'm more inclined to lean towards the anti-vaccination side. There is a lot of evidence pointing towards a possible link between vaccines and autism (as well as ADD and other medical conditions), and my high school teacher was very close to me, so that's probably influencing my standing point as well.
A question I have for Ms. Ingram: I am considering re-connecting with that high school teacher and possibly conducting an interview, but I'm not entirely sure if I am allowed to count that as a source, because she isn't a "scholarly resource" I suppose. However, I think having a personal story to tell would add some flair to this inquiry, and maybe I could interview a doctor or some other health-related official to give his or her standpoint as well.
Yes, you should definitely contact that teacher! You might also want to get in touch with a chiropractor (I can get you connected with mine) or somebody else who might know even more about the issue. I also think there is a webinar about this listed on our Moodle page. Also, Holly, reread the assignment sheet b/c it says you can conduct interviews. ;)
ReplyDeleteHi Holly!
ReplyDeleteI think that this inquiry is pretty awesome and definitely needs to be questioned more! I for one never knew that their was a connection between vaccines and autism and it is kind of scary to think of getting a shot, thinking its going to help you, when it can really be hurting you. People need to be aware of the scariness of vaccines. Well done so far!! And a personal story would definitely add tons to your argument : )
-Janie Hatley