Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is a neurological and developmental disorder affecting the way an individual communicates, relates to others, and perceives the world. It is identified by a range of symptoms and behaviors, which at times may severely affect the individual’s performance in normal life.
The symptoms typically develop at a young age, usually before three years, and may differ in severity and presentation. Understanding ASD is a struggle in itself so we have broken down the symptoms for educators to facilitate the affected individual with necessary treatment and resources.
Features of Autism Spectrum Disorder
ASD has an outlined diagnostic criteria which is called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
- Difficulties with Communication and Interaction: Verbal and non-verbal communication becomes difficult for individuals with ASD. These individuals have a problem initiating or maintaining a discussion, understanding social cues, or even maintaining an eye contact.
- Impact on Daily Activities: Such characteristics may have a significant impact upon adaptive functioning, social interaction, and academic proficiency. It is important for educators to know and pay attention to them.
The Spectrum Nature of ASD
ASD is a spectrum disorder, and therefore, its symptoms are very diversified over a broad range of severity. Since it is variable, the condition might affect any individual irrespective of their background. Some may require very significant support. On the other hand, those with the same condition may be fully independent.
Signs and Symptoms of ASD
Social Communication
People with ASD have or rather tend to experience poor:
- Eye Contact: Inability of maintaining an eye contact during a conversation is one of the challenges during social interaction.
- Listening and Sharing Interests: Inability to listen carefully or share interests with others leads to social isolation.
- Conversational Difficulties: Inability to follow conversations or participate in one makes social interaction very difficult.
- Abnormal Tone of Voice and Gestures: Abnormal speech patterns and body language make the whole process of communication even worse.
Restrictive/Repetitive Behaviors
Some of the common behaviors seen are:
Echolalia:
This is a tendency to repeat the words or phrases that one has heard from somebody else or media; may function as a way of self-soothing.
Concentrated Interest:
Concentrating interest in specific subjects or regular practices is a reason for some people to find it challenging to switch to other tasks.
Sensory Sensitivity:
Some people might be unusually sensitive to sounds, lights, or textures. This makes them feel discomfort and increase the level of anxiety.
Strengths Associated with ASD
Though people with ASD face difficulties in ample of activities, they are usually gifted and will have advantages in some of the factors, like:
- Detail Learning: People with ASD are good in detail-oriented kind of studies; thus, they are very good in the fields where accuracy is a must.
- Good Memory: An excellent memory for facts and figures is a great advantage.
- Development of Visual and Auditory Learning Skills: Strength in either visual or auditory learning through visual aids or auditory materials can help in building understanding.
- Excelling in Particular Areas: Many people with ASD have special skills in subjects like mathematics, science, music, or art. These can often help people to excel in these areas.
Causes of ASD
Although the precise reasons for ASD are unknown, it is believed that the condition is caused due to the interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Various risk factors are as follows:
- Sibling with ASD: In families where one child has been detected to be suffering from ASD, the likelihood of developing another one with this condition is significantly higher.
- Advanced Parent Age: Parents having an old age at conception are likely to increase the risk of ASD on the child.
- Certain Genetic Conditions: Fragile X syndrome and other such conditions increase the chances of developing ASD.
- Low Birth Weight: The occurrence of ASD is also higher in babies born with low birth weight.
Diagnosis of ASD
Diagnosis of ASD in Infancy
Diagnosing ASD consists of two steps:
- Developmental Screening: Here, general development including delayed development is screened, mainly related to communication and social skills as part of regular “well child” visits.
- Full Diagnostic Assessment: Full diagnostic assessment by a professional, such as psychologists and pediatricians, to establish the diagnosis.
Diagnosis in Older Children and Adolescents
Symptoms may be identified from an earlier period by the parents and teachers which will then result in referral to school assessments and specialized health care providers. Early intervention is very essential.
Diagnosis in Adults
Diagnosis of ASD in adults may be complicated since various disorders may overlap to show similar symptoms. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and support must be assessed by experienced neuropsychologists or psychiatrists.
How ASD Is Treated
Medicines
Medications may be prescribed to deal with irritability, hostility, sleep problems, hyperactivity, and anxiety. Even though there is no cure for ASD, medications are applicable in managing a few difficulties.
Behavioral, Psychological, and Educational Interventions
Many interventions also include family members to help in skill-building programs. Basically, these programs target social, communication, and life skills. The Applied Behavior Analysis is a widely accepted way to help the individual acquire skills.
Conclusion
Understanding ASD is crucial for educators and families to create an inclusive setting in education. This helps stakeholders use effective approaches to meet the diverse needs of students, who understand the features and strengths associated with ASD. Moreover, applying UDL principles will increase accessibility and engage learners to ensure that all succeed.
As we further advocate for improved resources and support for those with ASD, increasing awareness, understanding, and collaboration among educators, families, and communities remains very important. This is what will help us have appropriately resourced, more equal educational settings where students can become the best possible versions of themselves.
If your child has been diagnosed with ASD, contact us today at K Altman Law to discuss your child’s needs and explore enrollment options.
