Ct 276 Understand How to Support Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Conditions

Autism has a range of diagnostic criteria. This was described by Wing and Gould (1979) as the Triad of Impairments. The triad consists of:

Autism spectrum disorder is a general term for the complex neurological diseases that affect brain development. The common characteristics of the disease are difficulties in social interactions, speech communication and repetitive sounds and movements. In May of 2013, the DSM-5 diagnostic manual placed all autism disorders under one umbrella known as ASD or autism spectrum disorders. This merged all of the sub-types like Asperger syndrome, autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (autism speaks, 2014). Common characteristics of autism are intellectual disability, challenges in motor coordination, attention span

It is important to know that the person with AS perceives the world differently. Therefore, many behaviours that seem odd are due to those neurological differences and not the result of intentional rudeness or bad behaviour.

It is important to recognise that each person on the autistic spectrum has their own individual abilities, needs, strengths, gifts and interests because no two individuals are the same. People on the autistic spectrum have their own set of unique characteristics and vary from one to another in terms of their abilities. Some clients may have similar needs, for example, assistance with money. However no two individuals on the autistic spectrum are the same so it is important not too make assumptions about them.

The diagnostic criteria requires that symptoms of autism be apparent before the age of three, but it is roughly around that age that a child can be given an autism disorder diagnosis. In order to receive a diagnosis for autism the child must meet several criteria listed in the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. At least two qualitative impairment in social interactions such as: failure to develop peer relationships, lack of social or emotional reciprocity, impairment in the use of non verbal behaviors (facial expressions, body posture, eye to eye gaze) and lack of spontaneous seeking to share enjoyment, interests or achievements with other people. They must also show at least one of the qualitative impairments in communication, such as: stereotyped and repetitive use of language or idiosyncratic language, delayed or

Besides the poor communication skills and resulting in awkward social behavior of Asperger’s Syndrome, there are also the physical aspects. People with Asperger’s Syndrome have a heightened sensitivity to loud noises, lights, or even certain colors. For example, they may not be able to wear certain kinds of materials because the fabric will irritate the skin. Often, they have strong taste buds and are sensitive to different textures. Additionally, they may have a rigid walk or an odd posture. Likewise, motor coordination is usually lacking making simple tasks such as handwriting, opening a jar, or catching a ball a struggle. The lack of motor skills makes it difficult to play team

There is little research to examine experiences and needs of individuals with ASD, or proper and effective support systems such as educational and family support needed for young adults making this transition. Most information that is provided on this topic is based on professional’s experience and knowledge. It is essential more research is provided to develop programs to help individuals transition from secondary education to higher

There is generally some impairment of social interaction and of imagination. People on the Autistic spectrum can differ hugely in their abilities from being exceptionally intelligent, far above the norm to having severely impaired intellect, this is why it is called a spectrum.

1.2 Analyse the main diagnostic features of autistic spectrum conditions commonly known as ‘triad of impairments’...

Autism is considered a spectrum disorder because symptoms and severity vary from individual to individual. Autistic people express differently from each other. Autistic spectrum describes a range of conditions classified as pervasive developmental disorders.

1.2 - Analyse the main diagnostic features of autistic spectrum conditions commonly known as the and amp;quot;triad of impairments and amp;quot;

1. Understand the areas in which individuals with an autistic spectrum condition characteristically have difficulties

Autism is the main form of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Autism is a developmental disorder that is manifested in problems with communication, impairment of social functioning, and repetitive behaviours. According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), ASD diagnoses must meet four different areas of criteria. There are three symptoms of "deficits in social communication and interaction across contexts," four symptoms of "restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities," "symptoms must be present in early childhood," and the symptoms must "together limit and impair everyday functioning" (Carpenter, 2013). There are many theoretical positions on the causes of autism spectrum disorders. Some of which have been discounted by empirical studies that have been researched and performed.

Autism had many different names and age when it occurs depends on the multiple symptoms. Before they were all combined into one, they were grouped as autistic disorder, pervasive development disorder, Asperger syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder. Most people do not realize that some people affected by ASD surpass in visual skills, art, math, and music. Most signs of autism or symptoms start to occur between the age of two and three (Autism Speaks ).

Autism is a spectrum disorder that refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skill impairment, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as unique strengths and differences.