Autism (autism spectrum disorder) 2/26/16 By, Breah, Kourtney, Tyson, Marshall

Autism – The name Autism comes form the Greek word “autos,” meaning “self.” This describes conditions in which a person is removed fro social interaction-hence, an isolated self. Leo Kanner discovered autism in 1943 in the U.S.

Type of genetic disorder – There is no known single cause for autism spectrum disorder, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism compared to in neurotypical children. – – Neurotypical- not displaying or characterized by autistic or other neurologically atypical patterns of thought or behavior.

Symptoms – Requires a medical diagnosis – The range and severity of symptoms can vary widely. Common symptoms include difficulty with communication, difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests, and repetitive behaviors. – People may experience: – Behavioral: inappropriate social interaction, poor eye contact, compulsive behavior, impulsivity, repetitive movements, self-harm, or persistent repetition of words or actions – Developmental: learning disability or speech delay in a child – Psychological: unaware of others' emotions or depression – Also common: anxiety, change in voice, sensitivity to sound, or tic

Diagnosis According to the latest Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5), released in May 2013, an individual must show deficits under two broad categories: – 1. Deficits in social interactions and communication – 2. Restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior and interests Some children have a severe form of ASD, lacking any language or social interaction skills, while others, who are considered high functioning, have moderate deficits in these areas. Under DSM-5, ASD is further classified into three levels based on the severity scale. The diagnostic criteria and categories in DSM-5 have undergone substantial changes from the previous version of DSM-IV. How the new DSM-5 will affect the diagnosis and prevalence measures of autism is a major concern of parents and professionals alike In Autism Reading Room, a detailed comparison of DSM IV and DSM-5 diagnostic criteria is provided.

Autism Punnett Square Graphic

Prognosis – The person who has it often fails in school. – Being bullied by so called “friends” isn’t unusual. – Family doesn’t risk bringing kids with Autism because they have behavior that is aggressive like throwing tantrums and biting. – Parents feel judged by society. – Parents become isolated and depressed. – 49% of adults with Autism still live with their parents, 12% have full time employment.

Autism Graphic 2

Treatments/Medications that can be available – Can't be cured, but treatment may help – Early recognition, as well as behavioral, educational, and family therapies may reduce symptoms and support development and learning. – Prescription – Risperidone, Quetiapine (Seroquel) – Therapies: Anger management, Family therapy, Applied behavior analysis, Behavior therapy, Sensory processing, Animal-Assisted therapy, Online speech therapy – Specialists – Speech therapist: Specializes in voice rehabilitation. – Primary care provider (PCP): Prevents, diagnoses, and treats diseases. – Occupational therapist: Improves daily living and work skills of patients. – Clinical psychologist: Treats mental disorders primarily with talk therapy. – Neurologist: Treats nervous system disorders. – Psychiatrist: Treats mental disorders primarily with medications. – Pediatrician: Provides medical care for infants, children, and teenagers

Current Research – In the past five years, ASDF (autism spectrum disorder foundations) has provided direct financial assistance, through all of our programs, to approximately 1,427 families who have children on the autism spectrum. – During this same period of time, we provided autism awareness information to approximately 2,478,000 new mothers across the United States through our Autism Awareness program

Summary – When my autistic friend was two years old, his parents were divorced. This was hard for him because with separated parents it was difficult for him to learn and understand more without both of their help. When he entered the 2 nd grade his parents decided to get a tutor for him to help him understand and learn more after school. This helped my friend a lot and he was able to communicate better with other people and have more friends at school. Because he was able to learn more and understand and communicate, we are great friends today.

Effects – Signs & Symptoms of Autism. Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex disorders of brain development. This disorder appears in varying degrees, in differently levels of social interaction difficulty, verbal and nonverbal communication disruptions, and repetitive behaviors.

Sources – – &sourceid=chrome&es_sm=122&ie=UTF-8&safe=active&ssui=on &sourceid=chrome&es_sm=122&ie=UTF-8&safe=active&ssui=on – – – – family/ family/