(ii) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
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1. Definition
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) (American Psychiatric Association, 2013), ASD is diagnosed based on:
Social-emotional reciprocity challenges
Nonverbal communicative difficulties
Difficulty developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships
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2. Prevalence
As of the latest data from the CDC (2023), about 1 in 36 children in the United States is identified with ASD. Boys are about four times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with autism.
(Source: CDC, 2023, Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network)
2. Prevalence
As of the latest data from the CDC (2023), about 1 in 36 children in the United States is identified with ASD. Boys are about four times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with autism.
(Source: CDC, 2023, Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network)
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3.Causes
ASD is thought to result from complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors, such as:
3.Causes
ASD is thought to result from complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors, such as:
Genetic mutations (e.g., in genes like SHANK3, MECP2)Advanced parental agePrenatal exposure to toxins or infectionsLow birth weight or complications during birth
(Source: Ramaswami & Geschwind, 2018. "Genetics of autism spectrum disorder." Handbook of Clinical Neurology, 147)
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4.Key Characteristics
4.Key Characteristics
Communication Difficulties
Delayed speech or language developmentEcholalia (repeating words/phrases)Atypical tone or rhythm in speech
Social Impairments
Difficulty understanding social cues (e.g., facial expressions)Limited eye contactPreference for solitary activities
Repetitive Behaviors and Interests
Repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking)Insistence on sameness or routinesIntense focus on specific interests
Sensory Sensitivities
Hyper- or hypo-sensitivity to sound, touch, light, or smell
(Source: Lord et al., 2020. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology)
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5.Diagnosis typically involves:
5.Diagnosis typically involves:
Developmental screening (by pediatricians at 18 and 24 months)Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation by a team of professionalsTools like Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
(Source: Volkmar et al., 2014. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders)
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6.Interventions and Supports
There is no cure for autism, but early and sustained interventions can significantly improve outcomes. Evidence-based strategies include:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Behavioral therapy to improve communication and reduce problem behaviors
Speech and Language Therapy: For communication development
Occupational Therapy: For sensory and motor skills
Special Education Services: Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) under IDEA
Social Skills Training
(Source: Schreibman et al., 2015. "Comprehensive intervention models for children with autism spectrum disorder." Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology)
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Conclusion
Disabilities in children encompass a diverse range of conditions that impact their development and ability to function in typical settings. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a prominent and complex neurodevelopmental disorder that requires a multifaceted approach involving education, healthcare, and family support. Understanding the nuances of ASD helps foster inclusive practices and appropriate intervention strategies.
Conclusion
Disabilities in children encompass a diverse range of conditions that impact their development and ability to function in typical settings. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a prominent and complex neurodevelopmental disorder that requires a multifaceted approach involving education, healthcare, and family support. Understanding the nuances of ASD helps foster inclusive practices and appropriate intervention strategies.
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References
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html
- Lord, C., Elsabbagh, M., Baird, G., & Veenstra-VanderWeele, J. (2020). Autism spectrum disorder. The Lancet, 392(10146), 508-520.
- Ramaswami, G., & Geschwind, D. H. (2018). Genetics of autism spectrum disorder. Handbook of Clinical Neurology, 147, 321–329.
- Schreibman, L., Dawson, G., Stahmer, A. C., Landa, R., Rogers, S. J., McGee, G. G., ... & Halladay, A. (2015). Comprehensive intervention models for children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 44(5), 1-13.
- U.S. Department of Education. (2004). Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
- Volkmar, F. R., Paul, R., Rogers, S. J., & Pelphrey, K. A. (2014). Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders.
