What Is Autism
Autism is…..
a pervasive developmental disorder involving a biological or organic defect in the functioning of the brain
- More common in boys than girls (4 boys:1 girl with autism; 9 boys: 1 girl with Asperger Syndrome)
- A spectrum disorder – so a range of ability, some may have severe learning disabilities whereas others can be above average intelligence
- Sometimes associated with known organic causes – eg maternal rubella, encephalitis, infantile spasms, tuberous sclerosis
- Associated with epilepsy or seizure disorders – so up to one third of those with ASDs will also have some seizure history by the time they reach adolescence
- Genetically linked – higher incidence amongst siblings as well as the sex-linking mentioned above
- Associated with high sensory response to different sensory stimuli eg very sensitive to noise
- A life long disability with a need for life long support in most case
Ways of helping people who have an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Keep instructions clear and simple
- Whenever possible, use gesture to add clarity or use a picture that adds meaning
- Always use the same word for things
- Always use the same instructions when teaching new skills
- Keep the day structured and predictable
- Have routines that are familiar with clear start and finish
- Whenever possible warn the person with ASD about change, picture based timetables are a good idea
Autism is not….
- The result of emotional deprivation or emotional stress
- A withdrawal into fantasy life
- A wilful desire to avoid social contact
- Due to parental rejection due to cold “refrigerator” parents
- A middle-class disorder
- A mental illness
- Misunderstood genius (a very few may have special abilities in narrow areas)
- A new phenomenon (it was described as long ago as the 18th century)
- Curable
To summarise, they need:
STRUCTURE PREDICTABILITY FAMILIARITY
This will reduce anxiety and behavioural problems resulting from that anxiety. It will also help them focus on tasks so that they can learn, develop independence and enjoy themselves.
