Introduction to Autism January 24, 2006 Pat Mirenda, Ph.D. University of British Columbia

What is Autism? Autism is one a group of disorders that are known, collectively, as the pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) The PDDs constitute the “autism spectrum,” as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV-TR, 2000)

The Autism Spectrum/PDDs autistic disorder (autism) Rett’s disorder childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD) Asperger’s disorder pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) or atypical autism

Demographics Recent research suggests that ASDs occur in approximately 1/150 children (Fombonne, 1999) 4-5 times more prevalent in males We used to think that most individuals with autism also had intellectual disability, but current research suggests that this is not the case

Causes NOT caused by emotional abuse or neglect, or rejection by parents (mothers) Clear genetic component, with multiple interacting genes (2-10) Prenatal central nervous system damage Neurochemical component We still don’t understand the cause(s) enough to prevent or treat it medically

Diagnostic Criteria (2000) Child must have at least 6/12 possible symptoms to have autism; fewer constitutes PDD-NOS Symptoms must occur across three categories: impairments in social interaction impairments in communication restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests, or activity

Additional Criteria Must have delays or abnormal functioning prior to age 3 in at least one of the following areas: social interaction language used in social communication symbolic or imaginative play

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Individuals with Advanced Language Common problems: Literal interpretation of others’ language Unusual topical interests and speech patterns High stress/anxiety in communication contexts, leading to communication breakdowns Difficulty understanding when to talk, what to talk about, etc. in conversations