Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), also known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders, are “umbrella” terms used to refer to a family of disorders that share some characteristics, but that can differ in severity of impairment. Common Spectrum Disorders are listed below:
Most Spectrum disorders are characterized by children who don’t follow “typical” development of social and communication skills, and who display what are known as “repetitive, stereotyped” behaviors. Examples of these symptoms are listed in the tables below:
Social Impairments
Poor eye contact
Difficulty responding in typical “back and forth” communication
Seem indifferent to sharing their enjoyment of toys/objects with others
Difficulty understanding/empathizing with the emotions/feelings of others
Communication Delays
Delays in developing spoken language
Slow to respond to attempts at getting their attention
Repeat words or phrases they hear, also known as “echolalia”
Repetitive / Stereotyped Behaviors
Flapping hands or arms when excited
Intense preoccupation with specific topics/objects such as trains, calendars, planets
Extremely upset by changes in routine
ASD tends to affect 1 in 110 children, with boys being 4 to 5 times as likely to develop ASD. Scientists have not identified a specific factor that contributes to a child developing ASD, but believe that both environmental and genetic influences play a role. Previous theories tried to link ASD to certain vaccines given in infancy, but current research widely rejects this notion.
While there is no “cure” for ASD, early identification and treatment makes a significant difference in the ability of these children to reach their full potential. A good assessment that looks into the child’s interpersonal relationships, emotional functioning, learning style, and speech/language functioning is critical as soon as symptoms are suspected.
If you recognize any of these patterns in yourself, a friend, or a loved one, a psychological evaluation is recommended. The Tarnow Center offers both assessment and treatment for autistic spectrum disorders using a biopsychosocial approach that addresses the medical and psychosocial needs of the child and their family. Appropriate intervention for ASD includes:
- Family Therapy: Helps parents and siblings develop individualized strategies to manage the ASD child’s behaviors and anxiety. Family therapy also provides support to families with an ASD member.
- Group Therapy: Specifically focuses on strengthening the child’s social and communication skills, as well as develop the child’s “social radar.” Appropriateness for group therapy will depend on the child’s current language skills.
- Speech and language therapy: Address and strengthen difficulties in communication.
- Biologically based treatments: Medical (pharmaceutical) therapy or Neurofeedback can support and supplement skill building therapies.