Autism - Umbrellas & Spectrum

WHAT IS AUTISM ?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neuro developmental disorder characterized by a range of challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. It is called a “spectrum” disorder because individuals with ASD can present a wide range of symptoms and abilities, and the severity of these symptoms can vary greatly from one person to another.

Some common features of ASD include :

Social Interaction Challenges : People with ASD may have difficulties with social interactions, including understanding and responding to social cues, maintaining eye contact, and developing friendships.
Communication Difficulties : Individuals with ASD may have challenges in verbal and nonverbal communication. Some may have delayed speech or language skills, while others might have difficulty with the nuances of conversation, such as understanding humor or sarcasm.
Repetitive Behaviors : Many individuals with ASD engage in repetitive behaviors or activities. This can include repetitive body movements (e.g., hand-flapping or rocking), insistence on sameness or routines, and intense interests in specific topics.
Sensory Sensitivities : People with ASD may be sensitive to sensory stimuli, such as lights, sounds, textures, or smells. Alternatively, some individuals may show reduced sensitivity to pain or temperature.
Unusual Interests or Behaviors : Individuals with ASD often develop intense interests in specific topics or activities. They may focus on these interests to the exclusion of others.
It’s important to note that ASD is a spectrum, and each person with ASD is unique. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variation in challenges and strengths possessed by each individual. Some people with ASD may have exceptional abilities in certain areas, such as mathematics, music, or art.
The exact cause of ASD is not known, and it is likely influenced by a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Early intervention and appropriate support can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with ASD, helping them to develop skills and lead fulfilling lives.

Features of Autism - DSM 5

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), is a widely used classification system for mental health disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The DSM-5 was published by the American Psychiatric Association in 2013. Here are the diagnostic criteria for ASD according to the DSM-5:

A. Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, as manifested by the following :

Deficits in social -emotional reciprocity : Difficulty initiating or responding to social interactions, such as sharing emotions or maintaining a conversation.
Deficits in nonverbal communicative behaviors used for social interaction : Challenges with body language, facial expressions, gestures, and other nonverbal cues.
Deficits in developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships : Difficulty forming and sustaining relationships appropriate to the developmental level.

B. Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, as manifested by at least two of the following :

Stereotyped or repetitive motor movements, use of objects, or speech : Engaging in repetitive movements or using objects in a consistent, nonfunctional manner.
Insistence on sameness, inflexible adherence to routines, or ritualized patterns of verbal or nonverbal behavior : Resistance to change, strict adherence to routines, and distress when routines are disrupted.
Highly restricted, fixated interests that are abnormal in intensity or focus : Intense focus on specific topics, objects, or activities to the exclusion of others.
Hyper – or hyporeactivity to sensory input or unusual interest in sensory aspects of the environment : Sensory sensitivities or unusual interests in sensory aspects, such as an aversion to certain sounds or textures.

C. Symptoms must be present in the early developmental period but may not become fully manifest until social demands exceed limited capacities or may be masked by learned strategies in later life.

D. Symptoms cause clinically significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of current functioning.

E. These disturbances are not better explained by intellectual disability (intellectual developmental disorder) or global developmental delay. Intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder frequently co-occur; to make comorbid diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, social communication should be below that expected for general developmental level.

Therapy process at U&S

Initial Assessment : The process often begins with a comprehensive assessment to understand the individual’s strengths, challenges, and specific needs. This assessment may involve interviews, observations, standardized tests, and evaluations by different specialists (e.g., psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists).
Individualized Treatment Plan : Based on the assessment, a personalized treatment plan is developed. This plan may include specific goals for communication, social skills, behavior, and other areas of development.
Parent/Caregiver Involvement : Parents or caregivers are typically involved in the therapy process. They may receive training on how to support and reinforce therapeutic goals at home, creating a consistent and supportive environment.
Regular Progress Monitoring : Ongoing assessment and progress monitoring are crucial. Therapists regularly reassess the individual’s development to make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
Multidisciplinary Approach : A team of professionals, including psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and educators, may work collaboratively to provide a holistic approach to treatment.