Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Communication and social interaction difficulties may arise as a result of the neurological condition known as autism spectrum disorder. The sickness also manifests itself through restricted and repeated patterns of behavior. The term “spectrum” is used to describe the wide range of symptoms and degrees of impairment that might characterize autism spectrum disorder.
Autism spectrum disorder now includes symptoms that were once assumed to be separate, such as autism, Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and an unexplained form of pervasive developmental disorder. Although Asperger’s syndrome is typically considered to be on the less severe end of the autism spectrum, it is still sometimes referred to by that label.
Problems with social, intellectual, and occupational functioning are common among people with autism spectrum disorders who were diagnosed at an early age. Autism spectrum disorder symptoms typically emerge within the first year of life. A small minority of children appear to develop typically in the first year, but then regress between the ages of 18 and 24 months when they begin to exhibit signs of autism.
Although there is currently no treatment or cure for autism spectrum disorder, many children can benefit greatly from intensive, early intervention.
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How Many Distinct Therapies Exist For Autistic Spectrum Disorders?
Various therapeutic approaches exist. Despite the fact that certain treatments involve a number of distinct methods, most fall into one of the following categories:
Social-relational pharmacological cognitive-behavioral developmental-psychological complementary and alternative
Treatment in Development
Developmental methods either target a broad spectrum of skills, such as language and motor development, or a specific subset of skills, such as language and motor development. Integration between behavioral and developmental approaches is common.
Speech and language therapy is the most widely used developmental therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder. Speech and language therapy enhances a patient’s ability to understand and express themselves verbally. Individuals with ASD who are able to speak often do so. Some people may only communicate through the use of electronic devices, while others may utilize signs, gestures, or visuals.
The purpose of occupational therapy is to restore or maintain the patient’s maximum practicable level of self-sufficiency. Abilities can range from the ability to get dressed and feed oneself to the ability to cook and socialize. Occupational therapy may also involve:
Improved responses to limiting or overwhelming sensory input can be attained through sensory integration treatment.
Physical therapy helps people of all ages develop or hone their physical abilities, from the smallest of finger movements to the largest of trunk and body motions.
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is an all-encompassing approach to child development that was developed using principles from the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. For infants and toddlers aged 12 to 48 months. Play, social interactions, and shared attention in natural contexts are used by parents and therapists to improve a child’s language, social, and learning skills.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral methods center on modifying behaviors through the study of their antecedents and consequents. Behavioral interventions are the most successful treatment for autism spectrum disorder symptoms. They have achieved significant acceptability among educators and medical professionals and are used in many schools and healthcare institutions. One well-known behavioral therapy for people with ASD is called Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). To improve a wide range of abilities, ABA encourages the development of desirable behaviors while inhibiting their opposites. It is measured and tracked how far along we are.
Two of ABA’s pedagogical tenets are Pivotal Response Training (PRT) and Discrete Trial Training (DTT).
Direct instruction (DTT) is a method of training someone to perform a specific action. Lessons are made easier, and appropriate replies and behaviors are praised. Disregard is given to unwanted reactions and activities.
PRT is performed in the open air rather than in a medical facility. PRT aims to enhance a few “pivotal abilities” that will aid in the learner’s acquisition of numerous other skills. The capacity to strike up a conversation with a complete stranger is indicative of a vital skill.
Instructional Therapy
Education-related therapies are delivered in the form of lectures and discussions. One method used in the classroom is called TEACCH, which stands for Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children. The theory behind TEACCH is that people with autism learn best via repetition and visuals. It provides flexibility for educators to rearrange their classrooms to optimize learning and other outcomes. For example, daily timetables can be written down or illustrated and then posted where everyone can see it. Boundaries may be erected around workstations used for education. It can be helpful to supplement spoken instructions with visual signals or hands-on demonstrations.
Care Based on Psychology
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are often exacerbated in people with ASD, although these conditions can be managed with the help of psychological techniques. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that aims to help patients change their ways of thinking and behaving by analyzing the connections between those three factors. In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), the patient and therapist work together to set treatment objectives before the patient alters their perspective on an issue in order to modify their response to it.
Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Even parents use therapies that don’t fit well into any of the above categories. Complementary and alternative methods are the terms used to describe these treatments. Complementary and alternative medicine is often used in conjunction with standard medical care. Alternative treatments can take many forms, including dietary changes, herbal supplements, chiropractic care, creative therapies, mindfulness practices, and relaxation methods. Patients and their loved ones should always consult with their doctor before commencing any kind of alternative or complementary treatment.
Counseling for Interpersonal Problems
The purpose of social-relational therapy is to improve interpersonal skills and encourage meaningful connections between people. There are a variety of social-relational approaches that can make use of parents or peer mentors.
Following the child’s interests is advocated by the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based paradigm (also known as “Floor time”) in an effort to improve communication.
The goal of the RDI paradigm’s activities is to increase people’s skill, drive, and desire to cultivate and maintain healthy relationships.
Short narratives called “Social Stories” can help children and adults prepare for interactions with others.
By participating in a social skills group, individuals with autism spectrum disorders can gain the benefits of supervised practice in a group setting.
Medicational Therapy
The main symptoms of ASD cannot be alleviated by pharmaceuticals. Several medications are available to treat co-occurring symptoms, which can help people with ASD live more independently. Medication may be used to treat issues such as hyperactivity, inability to focus, or suicidal behaviors like head-banging and hand-biting. Medication can be used to treat both the physical symptoms of ailments like epilepsy and insomnia as well as the psychological symptoms of sadness and anxiety.
It’s important to talk to a doctor who has experience treating people with ASD before making any decisions concerning medication. This includes both legally prescribed medicines and those available without a doctor’s prescription. People, their loved ones, and medical staff should all work together to monitor symptoms and reactions over time.
Many therapeutic options exist for those who suffer from autism spectrum disorder. Please see your doctor or other healthcare provider for further information.
