Autism
Published on Dec 05, 2015
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
What is Autism?
Autism is a complex disorder of brain development. This disorder is characterized by troubles in social interaction, nonverbal and verbal communication as well as repetitive behaviours.
A brief history
- 1940- "autism" used to describe socially awkward kids
- 1960-Autism and schizophrenia began to be differentciated
- 1970-Autism treated with LSD, electric shock, behaviour rehabilitation
- 1980- Behaviour therapy and highly controlled learning environments used
Causes
- Autism has no single known cause. It's a very complex disease
- Genetics and environment play a part
- For some autism is inherited, but for some it happens spontaneously.
- Autism can be associated diseases like Rett syndrome or fragile X syndrome
Characteristics
- Unusually focused or intense interests
- Repetitive body movements like hand flapping
- Stuck in routines like the route driven to go home every day
- Sensory sensitivities including avoidance of everyday sounds
- Intellectual impairment
Photo by Beverly & Pack
Diagnosis
- There isn't a medical test that can diagnose autism
- Trained psychologists use autism-specific behavioural evaluations.
- Parents are quick to notice that their child is showing unusual behaviors
Treatments
There isn't a cure for autism but with appropriate treatment and education, many children with autism can develop and learn. Early discovery can reduce challenges with autism, lessen disruptive behaviour, and provide some independence. In many cases, a combination of treatments are more effective. Autism may require lifelong treatment.
How autism effects family life
- Frequent visits to treatment centres
- Accommodating home treatments for the child
- Asking for help instead of bottling it up
- Engaging the child in meaningful activities
Research
Eight research centres across the US have been established to conduct basic and clinical research, investigating the causes, diagnosis, prevention, early detection, and treatments of autism.
INTERESTING FACTS
- Autism effects 1 in 68 children
- Boys are five times more likely than girls to have autism
- There is no medical detection or cure for autism
