Autism: A Case Study
Natasha Perry-Wilkerson
Liberty University
Author Note
This paper was prepared for PSYC 345 Exceptional Child, taught by Professor Ed Dawson.
Abstract
Autism is categorized by deficits in maintaining social relationships and difficulty communicating. The number of children being diagnosed with autism is steadily increasing. Therefore the need incorporate effective interventions that focus on the development of the individual child has become an imperative component for their success. The key for children with Autism to achieve academic and social success depends upon the collaborative effort that is shared among all parties involved: family, teachers, peers; mental health professionals and the community.
Autism: A Case Study
Etiology
To understand the etiology of Autism one must understand that Autism belongs to a group of developmental disabilities that have been identified as Autism Spectrum Disorders. The name "spectrum” indicates that the disorder is broad and it affects each individual differently. Autism Spectrum Disorder commonly referred to as (ASD) encompass delays in the development of many basic skills. These delays in development include but are not limited to: limited or inability to properly socialize or establish relationships with others, effective communication skills, restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Individuals with Autism may also have (ID) intellectual disabilities,
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive neuro-developmental condition which effects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. People with autism may have a difficult time understanding ‘typical’ social cues and social behaviors, and they may face challenges engaging with those around them either by using words or non-verbal behaviors and refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech. As well as by unique strengths and differences. We now know that there is not one autism but many types, caused by a combination of genetic and environmental influences (what is autism,
Autism is the main form of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Autism is a developmental disorder that is manifested in problems with communication, impairment of social functioning, and repetitive behaviours. According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), ASD diagnoses must meet four different areas of criteria. There are three symptoms of "deficits in social communication and interaction across contexts," four symptoms of "restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities," "symptoms must be present in early childhood," and the symptoms must "together limit and impair everyday functioning" (Carpenter, 2013). There are many theoretical positions on the causes of autism spectrum disorders. Some of which have been discounted by empirical studies that have been researched and performed.
Many of us have heard about Autism, also knows as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Some have a family member, a friend, or know someone who has ASD. Increasingly it is becoming a more common disability. “Autism is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the U.S” (Autism Speaks). Autism has no respect for gender, race, social class and or ethnicity. “Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder that involves abnormal development and function of the brain.” (Autism Center of Excellence) People who have autism have a lot of difficulties with social skills, communication and also will develop behavior issues. These behavior problems of an individual with autism can vary at times and can go from mild to severe. According to the Autism Science Foundation it says,” Many people with the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) also have unusual ways of learning, paying attention, and reacting to different sensations. The thinking and learning abilities of people with ASD can vary—from gifted to severely challenged.” The causes and symptoms, as well as the diagnosis, and the treatments of autism vary.
There is a wide range and much controversy surrounding the study and overall effectiveness of different interventions for children and adolescents possessing a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, regardless of the method of intervention, every intervention shares the common goal which focuses on improving functioning in one or a combination of the following areas: social, communication, behavior, and academic. Social functioning includes interaction with peers and others, engagement and appropriate participation in activities, while communication refers to goals of “effectively signaling information to a social partner” i.e. utilizing and recognizing aspects of communication such as requesting, labeling, expressive language, speech, pragmatics, etc. (Missouri Autism Guidelines Initiative, 2012). With respect to the behavioral domain of treatment, effective intervention seeks to result in an increase of individuals engaging in the positive, adaptive skills to respond to a situation, person, or environment. Finally academic refers to skills that are required for success with school activities (Missouri Autism Guidelines Initiative, 2012). Focus in these areas of functioning assists in guiding treatment goals and provides a guideline of what to measure in order to gauge the effectiveness of treatment.
Many people are unsure about whether premature symptoms introduce changes in toddlers with ASD from ethnic minority versus those who different non-minority backgrounds. Treatment studies connect different studies in toddlers with ASD. There has been a number of 19 minority to 65 Caucasian children and their parents involved within this study. Each variable was contained by the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, and Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales Caregiver Questionnaire (Tek & Landa, 2012). More than half of the parents were from the upper classes regardless of ethnic association. Minority children had decreased scores in language, communication, and gross motor than non-minority children (Tek
Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD is a group of neurological and developmental disorders characterized by challenges associated with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. It can be difficult to diagnose ASD as there is no test. Instead the child’s medical providers will make a diagnosis based on the child’s behavior and development (Lord et al., 2006). Diagnosing ASD takes two stages. The first stage consists of a small test known as developmental screening conducted by the child’s primary care physician. The doctor may ask the parents of the child a series of questions regarding the child’s development as well as interact with the child to gauge development (Lord et al., 2006). If the physician
Autism, also referred to as autistic disorder, is a childhood disintegrative disorder, or pervasive developmental disorder. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are terms used for a group of disorders of brain development, with symptoms that some times appear during the first three years of childhood and progress throughout life. These disorders are categorized in different degrees, by difficulties in social interaction (verbal and nonverbal communication), and by repetitive behaviors. Autism is an extremely incapacitating developmental disorder. Autism has been recognized as distinct subtypes including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder, and Asperger syndrome. Now all autism disorders
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental that includes disordersocial impairments, difficulty in communicating verbally and nonverbally, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior. Autism was first diagnosed in the early 1940’s. Signs of Autism and diagnosis usually occur before the child becomes 3 years of age. Autism occurs in children about 1–2 per 1,000 people worldwide. It is diagnosed more in children that are boys rather than girls. The number of children diagnosed with Autism has drastically increased since the 1980’s with still, no known cause. Although, some scientists have come up with the theory that Autism may be hereditary or environmental causes.
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) may experience some forms of stigmatization within society. The stigma is not only attached to those affected by ASD, but also to the families who take care of them. Gray (1993) notes “families often find that public reaction to them is stereotypical and negative” (p. 103). Interactions with others might result in a range of reactions from misperceptions to adversarial encounters like bullying or less obvious forms like discrimination. This may force parents to keep from pursuing a diagnosis or services for their children. They may prevent their children from joining in community activities and from experiencing the same quality of life as normal children. These situations can take place anywhere
This article contained a great deal of information regarding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and dental treatment. In order for dental professionals to treat those with autism effectively, they must have knowledge and comfort with what they do. This includes understanding the prevalence of ASD, the signs and symptoms of autism, and being aware of the patients’ needs of every aspect of an appointment.
Research has come a long way in identifying key characteristics in the etiology and in the course that autism takes. However, there is still much to learn and many questions that need answers. Autism is a severe developmental disorder that is characterized by social and communicative impairments with restrictive range of activities and interest (Dawson, Webb, Schellenberg, Dager, Friedman, Aylward & Richards, 2002).
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an intricate developmental disability. Symptoms appear during early stages of childhood and affect a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. According to the Center for Disease Control, their latest statistics show that 1 out of 68 children have been identified with having autism spectrum disorder. Autism affects many who have been diagnosed differently because of the wide range of symptoms and levels of functioning that take place. Early signs of Autism are, not being able to verbalize a single word by age 16 months, overly focused on a certain object, avoids making eye contact, doesn’t respond to their name, does not smile or respond in social environments. The severity of ASD varies greatly. There is no correct answer as to what causes Autism, but Scientist believe genetics and the environment play a key role. With an early diagnosis from a licensed medical professional and early treatment, children can enjoy a healthy, fun and memorable childhood, and grow to become productive members of society. An excellent treatment for children with
Autism affects many different individuals in today’s society. In fact, 1 in 68 people have some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (“Autism Fact Sheet”). It affects every race and ethnic group but studies have shown it is typically shown more in males. Autism indicates a group of complicated neurodevelopment disorders depicted by repetitive and characteristic patterns of behavior and struggles with social communication and interaction. There is no exact cause of autism but it is believed that certain genes are associated with the disorder. Researchers have noticed some differences in some regions of the brain. It is also believed that genetics and environment may play a role.
One in every forty-five children in the United States battle day-to-day with the grueling traits of having autism spectrum disorders (Autism Speaks 2015). Autism is an extremely broad behavioral disorder that affects a person’s social and communication skills. Each person who has autism battles with different aspects. Each case of autism is contrasting, and that person needs specialized help to make it possible for them to excel in life. Although Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) cause a daily struggle, it is immensely possible for a person with autism to live an ordinary life.
Autism is a mental condition, present from early childhood, characterized by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts (“Autism” Def). It’s a disability that affects a person’s communication skills and/or changes in behavior. Autism is usually diagnosed before three years of age and has a lifelong persistence. The causes of this disorder is unclear and there is currently no cure for it. There are two core characteristics of autism. The first being a deficiency in social communication and social interaction. The second is a restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviors, interests, and activities. Clinical features of autism include walking on tiptoes, lack of eye contact, extreme dislike of certain foods or sounds, poor communication skills, repetitive behaviors, and